Gen Z workers who fear AI will take their job actively sabotaging its rollout (fortune.com)

A recent report from Writer and Workplace Intelligence reveals that a significant portion of employees, particularly Gen Z workers, are actively sabotaging their companies' AI adoption efforts due to fears of job displacement. The survey, which included 2,400 knowledge workers across the U.S., U.K., and Europe, found that 29% of employees admitted to undermining AI strategies, with the number rising to 44% among Gen Z respondents. Sabotage tactics include entering proprietary data into public AI tools, refusing to use approved technology, and deliberately underperforming to diminish AI's perceived effectiveness. This trend poses a complex challenge for businesses striving to embrace AI, especially as experts warn that automation could threaten many white-collar jobs held by younger workers. Notably, executives are increasingly considering layoffs for those unwilling to adopt AI, contradicting employees’ intentions to protect their positions. Meanwhile, those who effectively integrate AI into their workflows are reaping rewards, including promotions and significant time savings. The findings underscore the urgent need for companies to foster a culture of collaboration between humans and AI, as optimizing this balance may provide a competitive edge rather than resorting to layoffs.