Gen Z, the youngest generation of workers, is increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) tools for career advice, as they feel they are not receiving the necessary support from their bosses. According to a recent survey by career development platform INTOO, nearly half of Gen Z employees trust AI tools more than their managers when it comes to charting their career paths.
The study, conducted in partnership with research firm Workplace Intelligence, shed light on the struggles many workers face in progressing their careers due to a lack of support from their employers. Across all age groups, 46% of workers stated that their managers do not know how to assist them with their career development, while 59% claimed their companies seldom or never help them explore growth opportunities outside their current departments.
However, it is Gen Z workers who feel particularly lost, despite being the fastest-growing employee demographic. Among this group, 62% expressed a desire to have more frequent career conversations with their managers, but stated that their bosses are often too busy to engage. Surprisingly, 47% of Gen Z employees found that AI tools, such as ChatGPT, provided better career advice than their managers could offer.
The increasing reliance on digital platforms for career guidance among Gen Z workers highlights a larger issue – the need for guidance that is not being fulfilled by traditional workplace structures. Mira Greenland, Chief Revenue Officer at INTOO, emphasized that Gen Z craves dynamic and responsive career conversations, similar to the technology they have grown up with.
Organizations now face the unique challenge of adapting to attract and retain this new wave of talent. This requires not only more frequent and meaningful career development discussions, but also a reimagining of mentorship and support approaches.
The study also surveyed HR leaders to gauge their perspective on current career development opportunities and their impact on the job market. The responses painted a bleak picture, with HR leaders predicting that within the next six months, 30% of employees across all age groups, and a whopping 44% of Gen Z employees, are likely to leave their jobs due to a lack of career support.
It is crucial for companies to address this issue to prevent high levels of attrition and diminishing engagement. By providing employees with opportunities for growth and fostering a supportive environment, employers can build loyalty and create a workforce that is engaged and motivated.
In conclusion, Gen Z workers are increasingly relying on AI tools for career advice, as they feel their managers lack the necessary support and guidance. Companies must adapt to meet the needs of this new generation by offering more frequent career discussions and rethinking mentorship and support structures. Failure to do so could result in high turnover rates and a disengaged workforce.
