Generative AI's Role in the Workplace Reveals Communication Benefits and Generational Divides

A recent survey conducted by mmhmm, involving 1000 knowledge workers, sheds light on the transformative role of generative AI in the workplace, particularly in enhancing communication, while also revealing significant disparities in how different generations and levels of seniority perceive and utilize AI technologies. The findings underscore a complex landscape where AI's potential to automate tasks is acknowledged, but its ability to improve communication is most valued by workers.

Senior leaders are three times more likely than other employees to incorporate AI into their daily work routines, with 76% viewing AI as a partner in decision-making rather than a replacement for human judgment. This contrasts sharply with the sentiments of individual contributors, especially among Gen-Z workers, 31% of whom report feelings of guilt or shame associated with using AI at work. Furthermore, 32% of Gen-Z workers admit to using AI tools in secret, highlighting a hidden layer of AI activity within organizations.

Despite these divides, there is common ground in the recognition of AI's ability to enhance communication. Nearly half of the surveyed workers (47%) credit AI with making them more compelling communicators, using it to structure thoughts, refine messaging, and clarify discussions. This benefit is twice as likely to be cited as the reason for using AI compared to technical tasks like coding or data analysis.

For deeper insights into these findings, visit https://mmhmm.app/blog. The survey is part of a series exploring the evolving relationship between workers and AI in the modern workplace.