Do you want to get promoted at work? The secret is using AI.
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Can you really get promoted by using AI? Well, according to a recent survey from Novorésumé you can. The study found 15.3% of AI-using workers actually received a promotion at least partly based on the work that AI helped them to create. And younger workers had a huge advantage. In fact, 26.5% of Gen Z workers earned a promotion because of AI. So, what does it take to follow in their footsteps?
The McKinsey 2025 State of AI report found that 88% of respondents reported regularly using AI at least in one business function. This is a vast increase compared to last year, when only 78% reported AI use. Nearly every worker is using AI at this point. And some have figured out how to use it to score that corner office.
Now, this doesn’t mean that everyone is reaping the benefits of artificial intelligence. The Novorésumé survey found that even though 1 in 6 workers have been promoted based on their AI-created output, 12.4% of workers admit that AI hasn’t impacted their promotability at work. The data also suggests that a promotion is tied to one’s competence and responsibility, especially when AI might overshadow the actual capability of the worker and misalign them for the role.
So, what are 26.5% of Gen Z workers doing right and how are they using AI to show proof of their level of responsibility?
There’s a definite line in the sand when it comes to AI use, especially within the workplace. That’s why it's imperative to understand the ethical implications, the policies of the company, and also the comfort level of your colleagues. The workers on the right side of that line are being rewarded and promoted because they are taking the time to educate themselves.
For example, the ability to use AI and get promoted vastly differs between an up-and-coming tech startup and a seasoned brick and mortar business. In a startup, innovation, new ideas, and thinking outside of the box are viewed as positive qualities. If you're looking to get promoted in an established business that values a top-down approach to leadership, loves in-person meetings, and enjoys structured communication, then your approach is going to be completely different. You have to match the preference of the organization and the personality of decision makers within it.
AI is moving quickly, but that doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily leaving workers behind. In fact, according to the PwC 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer, U.S. workers with advanced AI skills like prompt engineering command a 56% wage premium. This is up from 25% the previous year. But it’s not just about learning the basics of ChatGPT. Those who are getting promoted because of AI understand how to prompt like a pro and treat AI education like a full-time job.
But here's the catch. As much as AI can work as part of your promotion strategy, that doesn't mean you have to leave human skills behind. There's a massive difference between using artificial intelligence as a tool and using it as a crutch. Decision makers can tell the difference.
By 2027, 75% of hiring procedures will include certifications and testing for workplace AI proficiency, according to Gartner, a business and technology insights company. Gartner also predicts that 50% of global organizations will require AI-free skills assessments throughout 2026. So what does this mean for you? It means that soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to produce work without AI will actually become your superpower.
The Microsoft 2026 Work Trend Index says that AI expands access across the board to who can do high-value work and suggests that every level now has a partner that helps them analyze and deepen their expertise. Microsoft identifies four modes of working with AI: delegation, collaboration, asking, and exploration. And all of these require human input.
AI helps you think faster. It doesn’t stop you from thinking altogether. So, what does this look like in the workplace?
Use AI to brainstorm, not leave your brain at the door. Before you even log in to an AI platform, figure out your destination. Think of AI like a GPS. You drive the car, but AI can help you with navigation.
Balance soft skill development with AI education. There are incredible resources out there right now, and many of them are for free. Whether you choose to learn AI with Anthropic Academy or take a semester-long program from MIT, make sure that you're also investing in leadership development beyond AI integration.
Read the fine print and ask questions. Doing things right the first time will save you in the long run. Take the time to understand where your company stands on AI education and implementation when it comes to projects and workflow. Even if they have an open policy, get as many details as you can so you're not crossing any boundaries.
If you want to get promoted in 2026, don’t worry about becoming an expert in AI. Become intentional about how you utilize it. There’s a difference between having all the knowledge in the world about a specific subject and being able to take that knowledge and move the bottom line of a business. Decision makers still want to know that you can meet quarterly goals, exceed on campaigns, and grow their customer base. But don't forget, even if AI helps you get promoted in 2026, make sure that you're building human skills that will keep you there for the long haul.
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