Gen Z uses AI more than older workers, they’re also more worried about it: Glassdoor study

A new Glassdoor study reveals that Gen Z workers are more likely to use AI tools than older workers, but they also express more concern about the technology, according to a report. This divergence in attitudes toward artificial intelligence is linked to generational factors and the perceived impact of AI on different age groups.

While workers in their 40s, 50s, and 60s are more optimistic about AI and its potential to create opportunities, particularly for senior-level positions, Gen Z workers are more pessimistic about the technology. Despite being the most likely to use AI tools, Gen Z workers are less likely to view AI positively compared to older generations. However, a majority of both Gen Z and Gen X workers still maintain a critical stance towards AI.

The study aligns with other research suggesting that AI is expected to disrupt entry-level jobs first, particularly for younger workers in their late 20s. Economists from Stanford University found that employment levels for this age group in AI-exposed occupations are 19% lower than their peers in fields less exposed to AI disruption.

This trend has led to a fear among younger workers that they may be more vulnerable to the impact of AI in the workforce. Glassdoor senior economist Chris Martin noted that while older workers may struggle with adopting new technologies, AI has not yet made older workers obsolete in the workplace. Experienced workers appear to have an advantage in working with AI tools, as they can better draft precise prompts and identify AI-generated inaccuracies.

Consequently, demand for senior-level roles has grown by 14.7% over the past year, while postings for entry-level roles have declined by 6.3% in the same period.