Young Employees Conceal AI Use Amid Job Security Concerns
Many young professionals hesitate to disclose their use of artificial intelligence at work due to fears of job loss. A recent survey by Cox Business involving over 1,000 Gen Z and Millennial workers in the U.S. reveals a complex relationship between tech adoption and workplace anxiety.
While over 60% of respondents view AI positively and use it for tasks like summarising documents, brainstorming, data analysis, and coding support, roughly half feel uneasy admitting the extent of AI’s role in their work. Nearly 47% worry AI might replace their jobs, reflecting broader concerns about automation impacting entry-level roles.
AI’s Dual Role: Tool and Threat
- 40% of Gen Z and 38% of Millennials expect AI to replace some job functions but also create new opportunities within two to three years.
- Despite this, many keep their AI use hidden to avoid potential negative consequences at work.
For HR professionals, this signals a need to address employee fears directly and create an environment where AI usage is transparent and supported.
Shadow Tech and Personal Tools in the Workplace
The survey also found that 63% of young employees use personal apps or software for work tasks without informing their employers. They cite speed and ease of use as key reasons for turning to their own tools.
Moreover, 69% report feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of tech tools they must manage, even though 86% feel confident adopting new technologies. This suggests that tool overload is a real challenge despite general tech-savviness.
Implications for Human Resources
Hidden AI use and reliance on personal software can introduce cyber risks such as data leaks. This emphasizes the importance of clear policies and open communication about technology use.
Jeff Breaux, Executive VP and Chief Commercial Officer at Cox Communications, highlights the opportunity for organisations to improve tech investments, training, and policies to better meet younger employees’ expectations as they become the majority workforce.
- Encourage transparency about AI and software tools.
- Streamline technology stacks to reduce overwhelm.
- Provide targeted training that builds confidence and clarifies acceptable tech use.
For HR teams looking to build AI fluency and manage tech adoption effectively, resources like Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses offer practical guidance on integrating AI responsibly in the workplace.
Addressing these concerns openly can help retain young talent, reduce risk, and create a more productive and trusting work environment.
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