SMBs Using AI Training as a Talent Attraction and Retention Tool, Survey Finds

NewsData.io · United States · Aug 20, 2026

A General Assembly survey of 526 HR and L&D leaders at US and UK companies with 50–999 employees found that 81% say layoffs at larger firms have made it easier to recruit, and 47% have hired from those larger companies in the past year. AI upskilling is emerging as a key retention lever: 72% now include AI training in onboarding, and 40% have passed over qualified candidates lacking AI skills. Role-specific training—tailored to how staff use AI within their own functions, including recruiting workflows—was rated the most effective approach by 35% of respondents. For staffing firms, the findings signal growing client demand for AI-skilled candidates and a competitive shift in how SMB employers position themselves against larger rivals.