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How Can Gen Z Discuss Their Use of AI Tools with Managers to Ensure Transparency and Trust at Work?
I love the intention behind this question: recognizing that using AI could be a concern and that the best way to address it is through open discussion.
First, don’t assume your manager is against AI. Many leaders I talk to are open to exploring how it can be used as a tool in the workplace. In fact, they might be curious but unsure how to integrate it effectively.
However, they do have concerns:
- Does it prevent my team from learning?
- Does it diminish the quality of their work?
- Will it breach data security or client confidentiality?
- Does it mean my staff have spare capacity, and if so, what does that mean for operations?
- If we don’t use AI, are we falling behind competitors?
- How far could we fall behind? Is it worth taking some risks to keep up?
- And on a personal level—how do I stay relevant if my team knows more about this than I do? Am I obsolete?
All of this, on top of their day job!
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How to Approach the Conversation
If you can put yourself in your manager’s shoes and discuss AI in a way that addresses these concerns, they’ll thank you for it. Here’s how you can start:
💡 Frame AI as a tool, not a shortcut – Instead of saying, ‘I used AI to do this,’ explain how it helped you work more efficiently. For example:
👉 ‘I used AI to speed up research, but I rewrote key sections to ensure accuracy.’
💡 Acknowledge their concerns proactively – If you’re using AI, bring it up before they have to ask. Try:
👉 ‘I used AI to generate an outline, but I fact-checked and added my own insights to ensure quality.’
💡 Show how it adds value, not replaces effort – Managers worry about AI reducing learning opportunities. You could say:
👉 ‘I use AI to handle repetitive tasks so I can focus on more strategic work. Here’s what I learned in the process.’
By taking this approach, you’re not just being transparent—you’re demonstrating maturity and leadership. Instead of AI being a point of friction, it becomes a conversation about innovation. And that’s a conversation where you can take the lead.
