Gen Z leans on AI at work even as job fears grow, Kahoot! survey finds
OSLO, NORWAY — A survey reveals that young professionals in the United Kingdom are increasingly dependent on artificial intelligence (AI) to secure jobs and perform daily tasks, even as a majority fear the same technology could threaten their livelihoods.
The study of 2,000 recent graduates, aged 21 to 25, commissioned by engagement platform Kahoot!, highlights a generation entering the workforce feeling undertrained and turning to AI tools like ChatGPT as digital managers and coaches.
As Jon Neale, Growth Director, UK and Ireland at Kahoot!, notes, “Young people aren’t turning to AI out of laziness; they’re turning to it out of uncertainty.”
Gen Z using AI as a career shortcut
The figures show that 65% have used AI to write application letters or job applications, and 51% have admitted to exaggerating about their capabilities on their resumes or LinkedIn pages. Work experience (53%), technical skills (46%), and hobbies (43%) are the most popular embellishments.
The dependency increases with use: 59% of users use AI to perform daily tasks because they feel untrained or unskilled. A significant 21% report their employer does not invest in training at all.
This points to AI being used as a practical, if unofficial, training supplement, filling a structural gap left by employers.
“Many are entering workplaces without the structure, mentorship, or direction they need to build confidence, so AI becomes a practical shortcut to present themselves as sufficiently competent whilst they build confidence on the job,” said Neale.
Living in an AI paradox: advantage vs. anxiety
The key conflict with workplace AI is that, on the one hand, it is a necessary life support; on the other hand, it is an existential danger to Gen Z.
Although 82% think AI gives them a generational edge over their older workmates, 54% are worried that AI may threaten their job security. Among them, 18% believe that, one day, AI might render their work unnecessary.
This creates a paradox: young workers are under pressure to use the same technology that they fear will lead to them losing their jobs to stay relevant in their current roles.
Their interaction with AI is therefore driven by the need to survive and live in the now, overtaken by fear about the long-term viability of their professions in an automated environment.
Flexibility and autonomy trump traditional perks
According to the survey, this generation’s priorities regarding personal working conditions are clearly evident compared to corporate values.
Flexibility (33%) is ranked higher than diversity and inclusion (22%) and social impact (16%) as the most important workplace attributes. This is reflected in working models, where 45% prefer hybrid arrangements.
In addition, the driving force of job satisfaction is feasible. The three factors with the most support for a healthy work-life balance are leads (44%), benefits and competitive pay (33%), flexible working (31%), and development opportunities (29%).
This means that young employees can be geared towards growth, and, simultaneously, their fundamental needs revolve around control over time and space, which, in turn, changes their expectations of their employers.
Neale notes, “Employers who want to fulfil their potential need to provide clearer guidance, better training, and genuine support, rather than leaving AI to fill the gaps.”
