#9: How Gen Z’s Use of AI is Reshaping Work Culture

As someone who has worked almost exclusively in the tech sector, I’ve become very comfortable with the practice of early adoption of the latest tools.

I realize that as a Gen Zer and digital native myself, picking up a new tool comes easier to me than many others (including my parents, who I am constantly helping navigate Instagram).?

But it begs the question, as more of us flow into the workforce, encounter outdated systems, and learn new technologies, how are Gen Z’s not only leveraging AI, but impacting work culture?

Last month, I spoke on a standout intergenerational panel at ISG’s Future Workplace Summit in NYC entitled, “Bridging the Digital Generational Gap.” As the only Gen Zer up there, I had a lot to address, but the overarching questions explored were:

‘How can we use the opportunity for learning that AI poses, to get to know ourselves and others better? And how can we leverage that knowledge to create more empathy, efficiency, and positive cultures within our teams and across our organizations? And what is Gen Z's role in all of this?!'

Here are some takeaways, which address these questions:

1. The Gen Z Influence

Three months ago, I shared a post about the tools I use every day, to increase transparency with my audience and build mutual understanding.

Upon watching the comments roll in, I realized a few things:

1) In sharing information about how I work, this post created a safe space for others to share how they work

2) It sparked a lot of knowledge sharing about which tools to check out

3) Whether online or IRL, amongst an audience or team members, this type of exchange is always BEST met with open dialogue, respect and empathy

Follow-up conversations with several of my #friendtors, including Sophie Wade , revealed that my post illustrated just how NOT lazy Gen Z’s are…regardless of the widespread false narrative heard in the media or behind boardroom doors ??

It also illustrated to me that Gen Z is not only driving change in workplace flexibility, mental health awareness, climate change, etc. but really, starting conversations that are long overdue.

2. AI’s Role in Enhancing Work Culture and Attracting Gen Z

If you haven’t noticed, much of Gen Z is on the ‘working to live,’ not ‘living to work’ train.

And we value organizations that, yes, align with our values, but more specifically, ones that value life and that enable us to live full ones!

In our panel discussion, a theme arose that kept coming up over the next day and a half. I highlighted a conversation I’d had a few months back with a Fortune 50 L&D leader about the importance of thinking about how we use the newfound time we gain thanks to AI.

For the individual, learning how to adapt to AI also means learning how to be intentional about using the time we get back. A Gen Zer like myself may think, “I just shaved 2 hours off my workday with ChatGPT, I’m gonna log off and get a manicure.” Versus a Gen Xer’s inclination might be to keep working.

For organizations, learning how to adapt to AI serves as an opportunity to communicate company values.

And for leaders, that means learning to ask questions like, “How are you using your newfound time?” And following it up with “Spending it with your family?” Rather than “How much extra work can you get done?”

Organizations that embrace the ‘work to live’ mentality have a better chance of attracting and retaining Gen Z employees.

3. Addressing Unrealistic Expectations

Speaking of generational expectations of work, it's clear that we are SO not on the same page…mostly because the pace of AI development has led to unrealistic expectations about Gen Z’s proficiency in certain technologies, and colleges aren’t preparing us for work.

However, I think AI can help us bridge gaps in both training AND work expectations.

In the Q&A after the panel, a CTO of an enterprise org posed a question:

"I just hired a team of mostly Gen Z’s and I expected them to know X technology that they simply don’t. I’m frustrated by this, and I don’t know what to do."

If I could go back and give a fuller answer, I would urge this leader to consider some of the biggest challenges Gen Z is facing at work, among them:

• The pressure to quickly adapt to new tools and technologies without adequate training or support.
• The expectation to bring fresh, innovative ideas while simultaneously navigating traditional corporate structures and systems.
• The stigma around Gen Z’s work ethic and the need to prove their value constantly.
• The need to secure multiple jobs or streams of income if they wanna move out of home due to the cost of living way outpacing average salaries.

Shall I go on?? Oh, and those are just SOME of our work problems.

Not to say that this generation’s problems are more plentiful and important than others. But more to highlight that challenges Gen Z is experiencing may differ from that of other generations.

If you’ve made it to the end, I hope you take away the following:

• The intersection of Gen Z and AI is reshaping our approach to technology, work and life.
• The presence of new voices creates an opportunity to challenge outdated systems and promote meaningful change.
• Rapid AI development has led to unrealistic expectations about Gen Z’s proficiency, highlighting the importance of better training, mentorship, and continuous learning.

By addressing these challenges and leveraging opportunities for change, organizations can harness Gen Z's fresh perspectives and not only attract them, but also foster a healthier, more productive work culture for all.