Generation Z Uses AI the Most at Work

People have always sought to create and use tools that reduce their tedious tasks and increase productivity, and AI (artificial intelligence) is the latest addition to their "toolkit," according to a visualcapitalist.com analysis

In the past few years, AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini have solidified themselves as staples in modern work processes. Using large language models (LLMs) to perform tasks like brainstorming, report summarization, or research has become increasingly sought-after as a time-saver for knowledge workers (people whose jobs involve using information).

The cited analysis highlights the share of knowledge workers who use their own AI tools at work, depending on the generation they belong to. The figures come from the Microsoft 2024 Work Trend Index Report, which surveyed 31,000 knowledge workers in 31 countries.

Across all four generations, the proportion of workers using personal AI tools at work ranges from 73% to 85%.

Unsurprisingly, the generation with the highest share of workers bringing their own AI tools to work is Generation Z - 85%, according to the cited source. Generation Z, having gone through school and the early stages of their careers during the rise of generative AI, found it increasingly necessary to acquire AI skills to meet the increasing demands of employers.

Next are Millennials - 78%, Generation X - 76% and Generation Boomers - 73%.

However, using AI in the workplace is not as simple as it seems. According to the Microsoft report, 52% of those using AI in the workplace are hesitant to admit that they are using it for more important tasks, and 53% worry that using AI for major tasks makes them feel like they can be replaced.

The Pew Research Center reports that in 2022, 19% of American workers were employed in the jobs most exposed to artificial intelligence, where the most important tasks can be replaced or assisted by AI.

Information technology and finance workers in particular have the highest share of tasks that are estimated to be affected by AI.

A study by Market Research Future states that the size of the artificial intelligence (AI) in human resources (HR) market is expected to reach $13.1 billion by 2032, from $4.16 billion in 2023, based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 13.59% during the period 2024 - 2032. The analysis highlights that the global artificial intelligence (AI) in HR market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for efficient solutions that optimize hiring processes, employee management and data-driven decision-making. AI-based HR tools enable organizations to streamline employee recruitment, training and engagement, ultimately increasing their productivity and retention. The market is driven by the need for companies to improve their operational efficiency, which in turn improves the employee experience. As companies increasingly adopt digital solutions, AI in HR is becoming indispensable, providing tools to help with tasks such as resume screening, predictive analytics, and talent management. This rapidly growing market is expected to continue to expand as organizations across sectors recognize the potential of AI to reshape HR practices.