Unlike previous generations, Gen Z have definitely burst onto the workforce scene with a bang. No cap.
They are very vocal and their perspective challenges the norms of working culture no matter which field they enter. The way they value work-life balance, positivity and even the way they fashionably dress at work says it all.
Ironically, Gen Z's confidence does not necessarily translate to engaging in conversations with their Baby Boomer and Gen X colleagues.
According to a recent LinkedIn report, one in five Gen Z workers say they haven’t spoken directly to anyone over 50 in their workplace during the last year. Overall, they are the least likely to feel assured when interacting with colleagues from different generations.
Is it the difference in age or values, or are there any other substantial reasons for this?
The intimidation factor
Naturally, younger people will feel a deference in interactions with those senior to them due to culture’s emphasis on respect for their elders.
US-based Institute for Citizens & Scholars documented an interview with youth leaders about their experience working with senior colleagues.
Among the reasons why Gen Z feel challenged is intimidation. One participant stated she often feels intimidated "because I understand that older individuals have more experience and knowledge than me. Consequently, I feel like I need to be completely sure of everything I say, often holding me back from speaking up.”
Another shared that many adults assume she does not respect them, become defensive, and resist progress, making it hard for her to challenge them.
Gen Z prefers online communication
Having grown up with technology and social media, Gen Z is more comfortable using digital platforms for communication. They often view online interactions as more natural and intuitive.
Most Gen Z also have a mutual dislike for formality, due to their constant online sociability and desire for authenticity and relatability in interactions.
This means that they struggle with face-to-face interactions and making small talk in the office.
Reportedly, 40 per cent of Gen Z find it challenging to engage in casual conversations with their colleagues and prefer using WhatsApp, Teams, or email for communication, even when they are sitting close to the person they’re messaging.
Social anxiety, it’s a thing
The National Social Anxiety Center reported that over 60 per cent of Gen Z experienced significant stress and anxiety, including social anxiety.
Speaking to authority figures, which automatically translates to those older than them in the office, ranks among social situations feared by this generation.
For many of Gen Z, their social anxiety stems from their connection to their phones. Almost 37 per cent of them admit that their phone disrupts their daily activities, work, and relationships.
This explains why they find it difficult to communicate with those older than them in their workplace.
Gen Z are shy and socially cautious
It might sound simple, but another reason for this generation being reluctant to interact with older coworkers could be that they are shy.
A study by Psychology Today noted that the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as their upbringing with smartphones and social media during formative childhood and adolescence years, may have made Gen Zs more reserved compared to Millenials.
Scientist Louis A. Schmidt suggested that the trend in social comparisons and unrealistic expectations stemming from social media use may also contribute to a heightened sensitivity to judgment from others, which in turn leads to increased shyness for Gen Z.
Break through the barriers
Looking at workplace communication through the eyes of Gen Z does broaden our perspective to how they view their seniors and their hesitance to get closer to them.
Their preference for an online community, social anxiety as well as their shyness makes it crystal clear as to why speaking to their older coworkers could feel like a nightmare.
However, every conversation is a start to something new, so they should push past these barriers and take a step forward. Go, Gen Z!
They are very vocal and their perspective challenges the norms of working culture no matter which field they enter. The way they value work-life balance, positivity and even the way they fashionably dress at work says it all.
Ironically, Gen Z's confidence does not necessarily translate to engaging in conversations with their Baby Boomer and Gen X colleagues.
According to a recent LinkedIn report, one in five Gen Z workers say they haven’t spoken directly to anyone over 50 in their workplace during the last year. Overall, they are the least likely to feel assured when interacting with colleagues from different generations.
Is it the difference in age or values, or are there any other substantial reasons for this?
The intimidation factor
Naturally, younger people will feel a deference in interactions with those senior to them due to culture’s emphasis on respect for their elders.
US-based Institute for Citizens & Scholars documented an interview with youth leaders about their experience working with senior colleagues.
Among the reasons why Gen Z feel challenged is intimidation. One participant stated she often feels intimidated "because I understand that older individuals have more experience and knowledge than me. Consequently, I feel like I need to be completely sure of everything I say, often holding me back from speaking up.”
Another shared that many adults assume she does not respect them, become defensive, and resist progress, making it hard for her to challenge them.
Gen Z prefers online communication
Having grown up with technology and social media, Gen Z is more comfortable using digital platforms for communication. They often view online interactions as more natural and intuitive.
Most Gen Z also have a mutual dislike for formality, due to their constant online sociability and desire for authenticity and relatability in interactions.
This means that they struggle with face-to-face interactions and making small talk in the office.
Reportedly, 40 per cent of Gen Z find it challenging to engage in casual conversations with their colleagues and prefer using WhatsApp, Teams, or email for communication, even when they are sitting close to the person they’re messaging.
Social anxiety, it’s a thing
The National Social Anxiety Center reported that over 60 per cent of Gen Z experienced significant stress and anxiety, including social anxiety.
Speaking to authority figures, which automatically translates to those older than them in the office, ranks among social situations feared by this generation.
For many of Gen Z, their social anxiety stems from their connection to their phones. Almost 37 per cent of them admit that their phone disrupts their daily activities, work, and relationships.
This explains why they find it difficult to communicate with those older than them in their workplace.
Gen Z are shy and socially cautious
It might sound simple, but another reason for this generation being reluctant to interact with older coworkers could be that they are shy.
A study by Psychology Today noted that the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as their upbringing with smartphones and social media during formative childhood and adolescence years, may have made Gen Zs more reserved compared to Millenials.
Scientist Louis A. Schmidt suggested that the trend in social comparisons and unrealistic expectations stemming from social media use may also contribute to a heightened sensitivity to judgment from others, which in turn leads to increased shyness for Gen Z.
Break through the barriers
Looking at workplace communication through the eyes of Gen Z does broaden our perspective to how they view their seniors and their hesitance to get closer to them.
Their preference for an online community, social anxiety as well as their shyness makes it crystal clear as to why speaking to their older coworkers could feel like a nightmare.
However, every conversation is a start to something new, so they should push past these barriers and take a step forward. Go, Gen Z!