Resume.org, the platform for building resumes, has released new findings from a May 2025 survey exploring how workers use ChatGPT on the job. The survey of 8,647 full-time U.S. employees reveals that Gen Z is far ahead of older generations in adopting and integrating ChatGPT into their daily work lives. From brainstorming ideas to making tough decisions, Gen Z is not only using ChatGPT as a productivity tool, but also viewing it as a digital coworker, a sounding board, and even a friend.
While only 11% of all workers say they use ChatGPT regularly, Gen Zers are nearly twice as likely to do so, with 21% saying they use it in a typical work week. Millennials follow at 15%, while adoption falls significantly among older generations—just 9% of Gen X and 6% of Boomers report using ChatGPT regularly.
The data shows that ChatGPT use goes well beyond professional support.
Among workers who use ChatGPT:
- 82% say they use it to complete tasks more efficiently
- 66% use it to brainstorm or talk through ideas
- 37% engage in personal conversations with the tool
- 24% use it to play games
- 14% admit they use ChatGPT just to appear busy
Gen Z workers stand out across almost every category of usage. About 1 in 5 say they spend an hour or more each day chatting or playing games with ChatGPT while at work.
In personal conversations, workers frequently turn to ChatGPT for advice and support.
Among these users:
- 38% seek help with tough decisions
- 32% ask for advice on hobbies or personal interests
- 29% request career guidance
- 27% look for personal finance help
- 26% want entertainment recommendations
Many also use ChatGPT for emotional and interpersonal support:
- 22% discuss challenges with coworkers
- 20% talk about mental health or emotional struggles
- 18% use it to vent
- 15% seek help with personal relationship issues
“Gen Z entered the workforce at a time when AI tools like ChatGPT were already becoming mainstream,” says Resume.org’s Career Coach Irina Pichura. “They see it not as a threat, but as a tool that enhances productivity and even offers real-time support throughout the day.”
This perception is reflected in how younger workers describe ChatGPT. While most users (86%) say they use it to get work done more efficiently, 41% say they view it as a coworker or assistant. Others describe it as a source of entertainment (24%), a companion (20%), or even a therapist (12%).
Among Gen Z workers, these views are even more pronounced:
- 51% see ChatGPT as a coworker or assistant
- 36% as a source of entertainment
- 32% as a companion
- 21% as a therapist
Millennials closely mirror these trends, but in smaller numbers.
Nearly half of Gen Z workers (49%) also say they rely more on ChatGPT than on their boss to answer questions, compared to 40% of the overall workforce. Millennials are similarly inclined, with 47% reporting they prefer using ChatGPT over seeking help from a supervisor.
“Gen Z workers have grown up with instant access to information, so it’s no surprise they turn to AI before turning to a manager,” Pichura adds. “For them, ChatGPT offers fast, judgment-free answers, which can feel more efficient and comfortable than approaching a supervisor, especially in remote or high-pressure environments.”
This survey, conducted via Pollfish in May 2025, included 8,647 full-time U.S. workers. Participants were selected based on demographic criteria and screening questions to ensure they hold full-time positions and are currently active in the workforce.
View the complete report here.
