Gen Z Professionals Place More Trust in Generative AI Than Managers: Study

A recent study titled “The GenAI Gap: GenZ & the Modern Workplace” by upGrad sheds light on the evolving dynamics between Gen Z professionals and Generative AI (GenAI) in the workplace. Based on insights from over 3,500 Gen Z professionals (born between 1997 and 2012) and 1,000 HR leaders, the findings reveal a growing reliance on GenAI for professional guidance over human managers.

Key Insights from the Study

1. Trusting AI Over Managers

• 56% of Gen Z professionals prefer seeking advice from GenAI rather than their managers.
• Reasons cited include GenAI’s 24/7 availability and its perceived neutrality, making it a preferred tool for unbiased guidance.

2. Career Opportunities and Concerns

• 77% of respondents view GenAI as a gateway to new career opportunities.
• However, 54% express concerns about inadequate organisational AI policies and lack of proper training programs, emphasizing a need for clearer guidelines.

3. Environmental Awareness

• Gen Z professionals are three times more concerned about the ecological impact of GenAI compared to organizations, highlighting their prioritization of sustainability in tech adoption.

4. Training and HR Gaps

• 52% report insufficient workplace training programs for using GenAI, with irregular updates and limited upskilling opportunities.
• Meanwhile, only 21% of HR leaders trust GenAI for compliance and regulatory training, reflecting hesitation about its readiness for high-stakes applications.

5. Positive Outlook Amid Job Security Concerns

• Despite fears of AI-driven job disruptions, 65% of Gen Z respondents remain neutral to optimistic about its potential, showcasing their adaptability and enthusiasm for innovation.

Expert Take

Srikanth Iyengar, CEO of upGrad Enterprise, highlighted the pressing need for organisations to establish supportive AI policies and introduce targeted training programs to harness GenAI’s transformative capabilities.

“GenZ is embracing AI, but there is an urgent need for organizations to align with their expectations by offering comprehensive training and robust policies,” Iyengar said.

Conclusion

The study paints a picture of a generation ready to integrate GenAI into their workflows but held back by organizational bottlenecks. Clearer policies, environmental considerations, and comprehensive training could bridge the gap, empowering both professionals and companies to fully leverage AI’s potential.