AI Is Changing the Workplace Faster Than Employers Expect: MetLife Study

MetLife Bangladesh has released the second edition of its Employee Benefits Trends Study (EBTS), revealing that artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming workplaces across Bangladesh, with employees adopting the technology faster than many organizations expect. 

The findings also highlight the increasing importance of financial wellbeing and retirement preparedness, alongside rising expectations for employers to play a more active role in supporting employees through life's challenges.
The survey finds that 55% of employees already use AI in their daily work, with 91% of these users reporting a positive impact on their work experience, while only 58% of employers currently encourage or enable AI use in the workplace. Financial concerns are also becoming more prominent, with the proportion of employees saying financial stress affects their productivity increasing from 56% in 2025 to 72% in 2026, and 72% expecting employer support during significant unexpected financial stress or expenses. At the same time, job satisfaction increased from 78% to 83%, while interest in personalized benefits rose sharply from 65% to 86%. 

Insurance and wellness benefits continue to influence employee loyalty, with 79% saying these benefits would make them more loyal to their employer, compared with 78% in 2025. Retirement preparedness, however, remains a concern, as the proportion of employees aged 40 and above without a retirement plan increased from 53% to 81%. Meanwhile, 85% of employers believe benefits play an important role in building workplace culture, up from 78% in 2025.

The study surveyed 583 employees and 126 employers, representing a total of 709 respondents across industries including RMG, banking, FMCG, telecom, retail, manufacturing, NGOs, and technology sectors. Conducted in 2026, the research provides a comprehensive view of evolving workplace expectations and the role of benefits in building a resilient, future-ready workforce. 

Commenting on the findings of the report, MetLife Bangladesh Chief Executive Officer, Ala Ahmad, commented, “The workplace of the future is not only about adopting new technology. It is about ensuring that people feel supported as the world of work changes around them. For the second time, our research brings together the perspectives of both employers and employees in Bangladesh, helping identify evolving needs, expectations and opportunities. We believe these insights can help employers make better-informed decisions while empowering employees to better understand and communicate their needs. By bringing together technology, financial security, wellbeing and relevant benefits, we can help build a more engaged, resilient and future-ready workforce.”

The findings suggest that Bangladesh's workplace is entering a new era where AI readiness, employee wellbeing, financial security, and workplace culture are becoming increasingly interconnected. As organizations adapt to technological change and evolving employee expectations, comprehensive benefits and meaningful employee support are emerging as critical drivers of engagement, loyalty, and business success.