A significant workplace shift is underway, as more than half (56%) of Gen Z professionals favor generative AI (GenAI) tools over human managers for guidance.
This trend, revealed in a survey by upGrad Enterprise, highlights Gen Z’s preference for AI’s 24/7 availability, privacy, and freedom from judgmental bias.
The report, Generation GenAI Gap: Gen Z & The Modern Workplace, surveyed 3,512 Gen Z employees and 1,128 HR experts. It found that Gen Z employees often turn to GenAI for quick answers, task simplification, and personalized support. Many respondents feel judged when seeking guidance from managers, while AI offers solutions without criticism.
“GenAI provides options, not orders, which this generation finds liberating,” said Srikanth Iyengar, CEO of upGrad Enterprise.
Nearly half (49%) of surveyed Gen Z employees value the privacy AI offers, especially for sensitive workplace issues. Additionally, 73% already use AI tools at work, with 75% believing AI-generated outputs require minimal adjustments.
However, this reliance on AI also reveals apprehension: about 24% of respondents admitted hiding their use of GenAI from colleagues to avoid judgment.
While Gen Z embraces AI, it is also aware of its risks. Intellectual property infringement (43%), privacy breaches (38%), and cybersecurity concerns (36%) are top issues. Yet, organizations often focus more on cybersecurity (31%) and privacy (29%) than intellectual property (22%), creating a gap in addressing these concerns.
Iyengar stressed the need for robust education and clear policies to bridge this gap, noting that scattered or insufficient guidelines undermine the effective use of GenAI.
Despite its advantages, AI has heightened job security concerns among Gen Z. A separate survey by General Assembly found 62% of Gen Z employees fear AI could replace their roles within a decade. This anxiety is linked to their early career stage, where many perform tasks susceptible to automation.
In contrast, only 6% of senior executives feel threatened by AI, likely due to their experience and strategic roles. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang noted that AI complements, rather than replaces, experienced professionals.
Experts emphasize the need for employers to guide the younger workforce through this technological transition. As AI automates repetitive tasks, employers must focus on nurturing soft skills like communication and time management.
“With AI reshaping entry-level roles, companies have a responsibility to train and integrate the next generation,” said Lupe Colangelo, director at General Assembly.
With input from Fortune and the Economic Times.
