A new survey reveals a striking “AI readiness gap” in the modern workplace: Those using AI tools the most—including top executives and Gen Z employees—are often the least likely to receive meaningful guidance, training, or even company approval for their use.
The findings come from WalkMe, an SAP company, which surveyed over 1,000 U.S. workers for the 2025 edition of its AI in the Workplace survey. Nearly half of employees (48.8%) admit to hiding their use of AI at work to avoid judgment, suggesting that something like “AI shame” is a real phenomenon in the workplace. This discomfort is especially pronounced at the top, with 53.4% of C-suite leaders admitting they conceal their AI habits—despite being the most frequent users. Entry-level workers aren’t exempt, but the paradox deepens at the executive level, highlighting how even the most empowered employees remain uneasy.
