Most young knowledge workers using AI: Poll

The vast majority of Gen Z knowledge workers in a new study said they are using artificial intelligence (AI) tools in their work, underscoring the increased embrace of the advancing technology.

A research study, conducted by The Harris Poll and commissioned by Google Workspace, found 82 percent of knowledge workers ages 22 to 39 years old are harnessing AI tools at work, while 98 percent said they expect AI to impact their industry or workplace in the next five years.

Further broken down by age groups, 93 percent of workers who identify as Gen Z and 79 percent of those who identify as millennials said they use two or more AI tools on a weekly basis.

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Google Workplace, which includes AI-powered tools like Gmail, Google Docs, Google Drive and more, said many of the surveyed workers used AI to boost productivity and communication.

About 70 percent used AI for email drafts and responses or helping overcome language barriers, the study found, while 88 percent said AI can help strike the right tone in their writing.

"Our research shows that emerging leaders are adopting AI to increase their impact at work," said Yulie Kwon Kim, the vice president of product at Google Workspace. "Rising leaders are not simply using AI as a tool for efficiency, but as a catalyst to help grow their careers."

The majority of workers also believe AI, including generative AI, can build leadership skills when it comes to teamwork, collaboration and communication.

About 86 percent said AI can help leaders be better managers while 79 percent were interesting in utilizing AI to become a better manager, the study found.

The survey comes amid swirling questions and some concerns over the use of AI in the workforce. AI's expanding use brings the potential for altered workflows and hours for employees, along with a possible threat of eliminating or changing job availability.

Google has a vested interest in AI, pouring billions into the research and development of the technology as it seeks to keep up with competitors in the space.

The tech giant is also harnessing AI in its own workplace and Google CEO Sundar Pichai said last month more than a quarter of Google

Pichai said Google parent Alphabet’s investments in AI are “paying off.” This has included bolstering Google’s Gemini AI chatbot and AI-powered search features.

Google signed a deal last month with Kairos Power to use small modular nuclear reactors to power AI data centers.

The Harris Poll surveyed 1,005 U.S. knowledge workers ages 22-39 years old for the Google Workforce report. These reports are employed or self-employed full-time and "currently hold or aspire to hold a leadership position."