One in 10 Gen Z Workers Want Their Boss Replaced by AI
Amid growing concerns about AI-driven job losses, a surprising trend is emerging among Gen Z workers: many would prefer if their boss was replaced by artificial intelligence. A recent poll from EduBirdie reveals that 1 in 10 Gen Z employees secretly hope for a robot manager.
Even more striking, 69% of surveyed young Americans admit they are already being extra polite to AI tools like ChatGPT, anticipating future interactions with AI supervisors.
Why Do Gen Zers Want AI Bosses?
It's not just about job security; many Gen Z workers believe an AI manager would be more fair, neutral, and less intimidating than their current human bosses. Some feel AI would be smarter and more consistent, while others think they'd be able to manipulate AI management more easily.
Some responses pointed out that an AI boss "won’t hit on me" and would feel "less scary," highlighting issues of workplace discomfort and inappropriate behavior still prevalent in some management styles.
What This Means for Managers
This preference for AI bosses signals deeper problems. It’s not AI’s technical capabilities that Gen Z is drawn to, but rather the human failings of current leaders—burnout, disengagement, unfairness, confusion, and toxicity.
Managers face a clear warning: ignoring the emotional and ethical needs of their teams risks losing both their roles and their talent. In fact, many bosses believe they could lose their jobs within two years if they don’t adapt to AI technologies. However, the bigger risk could be losing young employees if they fail to improve their human management skills.
Soft skills like empathy, emotional intelligence, ethical judgment, and creative problem-solving remain essential. These are traits AI cannot replicate and are precisely why employees prefer human managers who truly lead rather than just oversee.
How Managers Can Respond
- Foster honest communication: Create safe spaces where employees can share feedback openly—even if it’s uncomfortable.
- Be approachable and consistent: Transparency and fairness build trust.
- Respect boundaries: Keep interactions professional and ethical.
- Own mistakes: Apologize and learn from them to demonstrate accountability.
Managers don’t need to be friends with everyone, but they must be fair and ethical to retain engagement from Gen Z workers.
Advice for Gen Z Employees
If you’re under a toxic or unprofessional manager, document any incidents carefully. Note dates, save emails, and keep records of inappropriate behavior.
Don’t hesitate to escalate concerns to HR or senior leaders if you feel unsupported. Toxic environments often hide behind smiles and friendly claims, but your mental health should never be compromised. Sometimes the best option is to look for a healthier workplace.
For HR professionals and managers looking to sharpen their skills in AI and leadership, consider exploring resources on Complete AI Training's latest AI courses. Building AI knowledge alongside soft skills can help managers stay relevant and effective in this changing workplace.
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