Gen Z emerges as key force behind workplace AI adoption

New research from International Workplace Group (IWG) shows that Gen Z employees in Canada are facilitating the rollout of artificial intelligence at work, with many taking the lead in teaching older colleagues how to use new tools.

According to a recent survey of more than 1,000 Canadian professionals, 55 per cent of Gen Z employees have coached older colleagues on using AI. This has been particularly important for organisations with hybrid working models, where teams operate both remotely and in offices. Cross-generational coaching is reported to have boosted collaboration, with 59 per cent of directors saying it has enabled them to focus on higher-value tasks.

Furthermore, 61 per cent of directors note that AI innovations introduced by younger colleagues have led to new business opportunities. For senior executives, 52 per cent report that greater AI skills among younger staff have improved departmental productivity, while nearly half have observed advances in the quality of their work.

Time savings

The survey finds that just shy of three-quarters of workers using AI gain an average of 47 minutes back per day. The report said this reclaimed time among professionals is then devoted to higher-value work, including creative projects, professional development and networking.

IWG stated that AI is primarily being used to automate routine tasks. The most commonly automated activities include email drafting, summarising meeting notes), file organisation, and data entry. As these tasks are taken on by AI, 59 per cent of workers are able to concentrate on high-impact projects. Others are spending more time advancing their careers or focusing on personal well-being.

Hybrid impact

Hybrid employees report particular benefits from AI adoption. A majority (56 per cent) said that AI has made collaborating across locations easier. Key advantages include smoother meeting preparation, improved language translation and transcription, and better post-meeting follow up. More than half (56 per cent) believe AI has enhanced the overall effectiveness of hybrid working.

The survey also indicates that automation has shifted the use of time spent in physical offices. With less emphasis on routine administration, staff are prioritising tasks such as strategic thinking, learning, face-to-face interaction and networking during office days. 46 per cent of respondents said AI contributes to better outcomes in their daily work.

Upskilling concerns

The trend towards widespread AI adoption has prompted concern about the risk of being left behind. Nearly 59 per cent of employees worry their career progression could slow without AI skills, and 53 per cent believe failing to adopt new tools could leave them at a disadvantage.

The research noted a growing movement towards inclusive, shared upskilling, with 47 per cent saying AI is helping bridge generational divides at work. Among Gen Z, more than half (55 per cent) regularly share AI knowledge with colleagues from other age groups.

"AI is becoming a powerful tool for hybrid teams and the modern workplace. It is helping to break down barriers of distance, time and generations," said Jeff Doughman, CEO North America, International Workplace Group. "Whether employees are working from a central office, a hybrid workspace or remotely, we're seeing them use AI to collaborate much more effectively. AI is giving hybrid workers the space to focus on improved preparations and stronger follow-ups so they can work more smoothly and achieve better outcomes."