According to a study by Indeed, Gen Z job seekers (18-24 years old) are more afraid of AI stealing their jobs than older workers. While a quarter of job seekers overall are fearful of AI, this jumps to over 30% for Gen Z. Older workers who have experienced previous technological advancements are less fearful.
According to a report by Springboard, nearly four out of five junior employees feel they can’t keep up with the rapid pace of technological change and are at risk of being replaced by someone with better AI knowledge. Businesses are struggling to keep up with advancements in AI and lack a clear direction on how to incorporate it into their daily operations. However, AI expertise is in high demand, with over a third of leaders stating that their companies need workers with AI skills. The report emphasizes equipping workers with the necessary tools and training to leverage emerging technologies.
Generative artificial intelligence has the potential to permanently eliminate white-collar management jobs, as it can perform knowledge work tasks currently done by millions of workers. While some business leaders believe AI will enhance specific jobs, companies have already attributed over 4,600 layoffs to AI adoption, with the actual number likely higher.
Why do we care?
I did not have “younger people struggle more with tech” on my 2024 bingo card. It’s logical when you remember that older workers might have navigated previous waves of technological disruption. This highlights a broader issue within the workforce: the anxiety of obsolescence in the face of rapid technological change.
With staff retention so critical, it’s vital to develop and deploy AI-focused training programs to upskill employees, emphasizing the integration of AI tools in enhancing job performance rather than replacing human workers. AI won’t replace you; you’ll be replaced by someone who knows AI. That’s the reason to lean in.
