AI Shame Is Spreading in the Workplace as Executives and Gen Z Hide Their Usage Amid Lack of Training and Support

‘AI Shame’ in the Workplace: What’s Driving Anxiety Among Top Executives and Gen Z?

A recent survey exposes a surprising paradox: those who use AI the most at work—top executives and Gen Z employees—are often the ones hiding their AI usage. Despite heavy reliance on AI tools, many lack formal training or company guidance, leading to increased anxiety and productivity issues. This disconnect signals chaotic AI adoption across organizations.

The Rise of ‘AI Shame’ Among Employees

WalkMe’s 2025 AI in the Workplace survey, which polled 1,000 U.S. workers, found that nearly half (48.8%) admit to concealing their use of AI to avoid judgment. This feeling is especially strong among C-suite leaders, with 53.4% hiding their AI habits despite being the most frequent users. Many also pretend to understand AI tools during meetings—45% of all workers and an even higher 55.5% of Gen Z employees.

Why Gen Z Workers Feel Anxious About AI

Gen Z employees are the most active AI users, with 89.2% reporting AI use at work. Yet, they receive the least support: only 6.8% have had extensive AI training, and 13.5% have had none. This lack of guidance forces nearly 90% to rely on tools not approved by their employers.

• 62.6% of Gen Zers admit to using AI to complete work and then passing it off as their own.
• 55.4% pretend to understand AI tools during meetings to avoid scrutiny.

This gap between usage and training creates a stressful environment. Companies are falling short in educating their workforce on AI, leaving employees unsure and anxious.

AI ‘Class Divide’ and Its Impact on Productivity

The survey highlights an “AI class divide”: training increases with job rank. While only 3.7% of entry-level employees receive significant AI training, 17.1% of C-level executives do. This means junior staff, who often use AI the most, are left to figure things out on their own, widening the knowledge gap.

Despite 80% of employees saying AI boosts productivity, many struggle. Nearly 60% spend more time managing AI tools than doing the actual work. Gen Z feels this tension the most:

• 65.3% say AI slows them down.
• 68% feel pressured to produce more because of AI.
• Almost one in three are deeply anxious about AI’s impact on their roles.

This mismatch between expectations and reality points to poorly managed AI integration. Supporting this, a recent MIT study found a 95% failure rate for generative AI pilots in large enterprises.

What HR Can Do

For Human Resources professionals, these insights highlight the urgent need for clear AI policies and training programs. Supporting employees—especially younger workers—with structured AI education can reduce anxiety and improve productivity.

Providing official guidance and fostering an open environment where AI use isn’t hidden will help close the knowledge gap. Consider integrating AI learning resources such as those offered by Complete AI Training to equip your workforce effectively.

Addressing “AI shame” isn’t just about tech adoption; it’s about building trust and confidence in the tools employees rely on daily.