Salesforce Research: Four Consumer Personas Driving Demand for AI Agents
AI agents are transforming not just workplaces but everyday life—and consumers are eager to embrace them. According to a new Salesforce survey of 2,552 U.S. adults, four distinct personality types are shaping demand for agentic AI:
- The Smarty Pants (43%) – Values data-driven decision-making
- The Minimalist (22%) – Prefers simplicity and automation
- The Life-Hacker (16%) – Seeks maximum efficiency
- The Tastemaker (15%) – Craves hyper-personalized recommendations
“Consumer expectations for AI are as diverse as the people using it,” said Vala Afshar, Chief Digital Evangelist at Salesforce. “Brands that align AI agents with these personas will unlock powerful new ways to engage customers.”
Why It Matters
With 88% of consumers saying experience is as crucial as product quality, AI agents are set to raise the bar—delivering proactive, personalized, and conversational interactions. Businesses must adapt or risk falling behind.
Meet the Four AI Agent Personas
1. The Smarty Pants (43%) – The Informed Decision-Maker
- Wants: Deep analysis, clear breakdowns of complex info
- Traits: Strategic, research-driven, loves tools but vets all options
- Stats:
- 53% want AI to simplify complicated topics
- 54% thoroughly research before making decisions
- Real-World Use: Goodyear uses Agentforce to help drivers choose the right tires with confidence.
2. The Minimalist (22%) – The Simplicity Seeker
- Wants: Hands-off automation, stress-free choices
- Traits: Mostly Gen X/Boomers, less comfortable with AI
- Stats:
- 37% want AI to handle tasks for them
- 58% aren’t fully at ease with AI tools
- Real-World Use: Heathrow Airport leverages Agentforce to streamline travel.
3. The Life-Hacker (16%) – The Efficiency Expert
- Wants: Speed, multitasking, AI as a productivity booster
- Traits: Tech-savvy, always optimizing
- Stats:
- 52% want AI to help them do things faster
- 57% constantly look for ways to save time
- Real-World Use: SharkNinja taps Agentforce for quick recipe hacks.
4. The Tastemaker (15%) – The Curated Connoisseur
- Wants: Bespoke recommendations (shows, restaurants, products)
- Traits: Mostly Gen Z/Millennials, loves personalization
- Stats:
- 40% want AI to suggest tailored picks
- 51% prefer curated over generic advice
- Real-World Use: Secret Escapes crafts personalized travel experiences.
The Business Imperative
AI agents aren’t just a tech trend—they’re becoming a customer expectation. Companies that tailor AI experiences to these personas will win loyalty in an increasingly competitive landscape.
“The future of AI isn’t one-size-fits-all,” said Afshar. “Brands need to map their AI strategies to real consumer needs—whether that’s efficiency, simplicity, personalization, or informed choices.”
Methodology: Salesforce, in partnership with YouGov, surveyed 2,552 U.S. adults (18+) from April 3-7, 2025.
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