Deloitte has released its 2024 Survey on Generation Z and Millennials, revealing a cautious optimism towards artificial intelligence (AI) along with concerns about future job security. This study, which surveyed 23,000 workers in 44 countries, provides a comprehensive insight into the expectations and fears of these generations regarding AI.
Key Details from the Report
Regular users of AI believe that this technology will improve the balance between work and personal life, optimize work tasks, and free up time. However, 60% of respondents fear that AI-driven automation will eliminate jobs in the future, with these concerns being more pronounced among intensive AI users compared to non-users.
Additionally, only 45% of millennials and 51% of Generation Z feel that their employers are providing adequate training in AI. Despite this lack of training, 59% of Generation Z and 57% of millennials plan to acquire new skills to adapt to the impacts of AI on their careers.
Why It Matters
Millennials and Generation Z are about to experience one of the most drastic changes in the modern workforce. The survey highlights that, although these generations understand the need to compete in a job market transformed by AI, their employers do not always provide them with the necessary tools.
Economic and Social Perspectives
The report also highlights that nearly a third of Generation Z (32%) and millennials (31%) are optimistic about the improvement of the economy in their countries in the next year, a figure that has increased since last year and is the highest since 2020. However, financial insecurity remains a significant concern, with 30% of Generation Z and 32% of millennials feeling financially insecure.
In terms of social and political situations, only a quarter of respondents expect positive changes in their country in the next year. Environmental sustainability remains a priority, with 62% of Generation Z and 59% of millennials concerned about climate change. Many of them are taking action to reduce their environmental impact and are pushing companies to adopt more sustainable practices.
Impact of AI on Work
Generative AI has advanced significantly, and its adoption presents both opportunities and challenges. Respondents who frequently use AI are more likely to feel enthusiasm and confidence in the technology. However, they also express concerns about possible job elimination and the difficulty for younger generations to enter the job market due to automation.
In response to these concerns, many young people are considering the need to retrain professionally and seek job opportunities that are less vulnerable to automation. Although only half of respondents believe their employers are providing adequate training in AI, a significant number plan to participate in AI training over the next 12 months.
The Deloitte survey underscores a balance between optimism and caution among young people regarding AI. While they recognize the potential benefits of the technology, they are also aware of the associated job risks. This report highlights the importance of employers providing the necessary training for these generations to thrive in an ever-evolving work environment.