Gen Z Prefers ChatGPT To Boss For Workplace Help

Younger generations in the workforce, particularly Gen Z, have grown up immersed in new technology. This includes artificial intelligence, which has increasingly found its way into the workplace, impacting areas from job applications and interviews to even mentorship.

AI Over Bosses A Growing Trend Among Younger Workers

A recent report from Resume.org highlights a significant shift: 49 percent of Gen Z employees indicate they rely more on ChatGPT for assistance than on their direct supervisors. Millennials are not far behind, with 47 percent expressing the same sentiment. This data underscores a changing dynamic in how employees seek help and information at work.

The Workplace Impact Of Rising AI Reliance

The proliferation of AI chatbots like ChatGPT has sparked discussions and concerns across both education and professional sectors. While many academic institutions have restricted AI use for assignments, numerous companies are embracing AI tools to boost productivity and optimize operations.

Understanding AI Usage Across Generations

Individual employees are increasingly experimenting with AI to enhance their efficiency or to help with tasks like drafting professional emails. For Gen Z, AI appears to be stepping into a role once predominantly filled by managers.

The survey, which included 8,647 full-time U.S. workers, found that 11 percent of all workers use ChatGPT regularly. However, Gen Zers are twice as likely to use the tool, with 21 percent reporting regular usage. In contrast, older generations are less inclined to incorporate AI into their work: only 9 percent of Gen X and a mere 6 percent of baby boomers reported using ChatGPT regularly. Across all age groups, 40 percent of workers admitted they rely more on ChatGPT than their boss for answers.

Irina Pichura, a Career Coach at Resume.Org, commented in the report: "Gen Z workers have grown up with instant access to information, so it's no surprise they turn to AI before turning to a manager. For them, ChatGPT offers fast, judgment-free answers, which can feel more efficient and comfortable than approaching a supervisor, especially in remote or high-pressure environments."

Expert Insights Why Gen Z Chooses AI Mentorship

Several experts weighed in on this trend:

Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group and host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek:

"Gen Z sees ChatGPT as a good option and assistant. This is a highly practical option versus asking your boss for the answer. This could also help show initiative in regard to processes allowing you to focus your attention in areas while adding significant time savings."

Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, shared with Newsweek:

"Over the past two years, we've seen administration at many employers stretched further and further, with many in leadership getting more employees that report to them and fewer hours to assist. While there certainly could be cases of Gen Z taking decision-making into their own hands with AI, the reality probably is they're using it for basic decision-making because their manager is slower to respond to some requests. When you have immediate needs and are looking for solutions that follow your employer's protocols, AI can be a simple and easy way to generate a decision without waiting for long periods of time for your manager to reply."

HR consultant Bryan Driscoll explained to Newsweek:

"Many younger workers today see how speaking up can get you labeled as a difficult employee, how asking too many questions makes you look incompetent, and how managers often don't have the time or emotional intelligence to manage people effectively. AI doesn't condescend—unless you ask it to— and it doesn't micromanage or make you feel stupid for not knowing something."

Navigating The Future AI And The Evolution Of Management

While some older generations might interpret Gen Z's AI usage as indicative of a poor work ethic, Driscoll suggests they often didn't face the same pressures of "toxic bosses in a 24/7 surveillance culture."

"Gen Z is just adapting to a system that doesn't prioritize their growth or well-being," Driscoll stated. "If managers don't step up—and if companies don't give managers the space and time to step up—relevance and trust will continue to erode."

Thompson noted that while AI can be a significant time-saver for all employees and lead to cost savings for businesses by potentially eliminating inefficient meetings, Gen Z should also be cautious. He warned, "A huge warning for Gen Z: Businesses are asking Gen Z to program AI for their business, while Gen Z may not realize they are creating their replacement."