Why Gen Z Colleagues Are Annoyed By You—Maybe
In today’s workplace, there’s often a noticeable disconnect between Gen Z and their older colleagues. If you’re a seasoned professional, you might find yourself frustrated with Gen Z’s approach to work, and vice versa. This communication gap isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s a significant barrier to productivity. Gen Z’s desire for immediate feedback and flexible work environments often clashes with traditional practices, leading to misunderstandings and friction.
Research suggests that Gen Z brings a “brat” culture to the workplace—a mindset that challenges traditional stereotypes and prioritizes authenticity over corporate facades. While Gen Z may mock corporate jargon on platforms like TikTok, they also bring their own unique language and expectations to the workplace. As a result, Boomers and Gen Xers are increasingly turning to Google to decipher Gen Z’s “terms of endearment,” with searches up by +55% this month alone.
### Communicating with Gen Z Without Sounding Fake
To bridge this communication gap, Avery Morgan, Chief Human Resources Officer at EduBirdie, offers four practical tips to help established teams connect with their Gen Z colleagues authentically.
#### 1. **Cut the Corporate Jargon**
Gen Z has little patience for corporate speak. Phrases like “circle back” or “touch base” are not just annoying—they’re confusing. Morgan suggests ditching the buzzwords and opting for straightforward communication. For example, instead of saying, “Let’s circle back,” simply say, “Can we discuss this tomorrow?” Morgan compares corporate jargon to “cosplay,” where people put on a facade that feels insincere to Gen Z, especially in multicultural teams. Keep it simple and direct to avoid misunderstandings.
#### 2. **Show Your Human Side**
Gen Z values sincerity over polished facades. Morgan advises adding a personal touch to your communication to remind them that there’s a real person behind the email or Slack message. Instead of saying, “Your output meets expectations,” try something like, “Hey, great job on that report!” A simple opener like, “Hope you’re having a productive week,” is much more effective than a cold, “Please submit the report by EOD.” Being real doesn’t mean oversharing or being overly casual; it means finding a balance between professionalism and authenticity.
#### 3. **Don’t Overcompensate—Stay Authentic**
While it’s important to meet Gen Z on their level, Morgan warns against overcompensating. Trying too hard to mimic their vibe can backfire. For instance, sprinkling TikTok references into your emails unless it’s natural to you can come across as insincere. If you’re unsure about a slang term, ask for clarification instead of pretending to know. Authenticity is about being consistent and transparent, not about trying to be trendy.
#### 4. **Value Their Input, but Avoid Micromanaging**
Gen Z thrives on autonomy and appreciates when their ideas are valued. A top-down approach is unlikely to work with them. Morgan suggests involving them in decision-making processes and asking for their input, such as, “How would you approach this?” Set clear goals and trust them to execute. When giving feedback, frame it as a collaborative effort rather than a correction. Acknowledge their efforts specifically, such as, “Your insights made a big difference in this presentation,” to build trust and motivation.
### A Wrap-Up: Gen Z Colleagues Are Annoyed By You
Gen Z colleagues are often frustrated by the stereotypes that label them as lazy, unmotivated, or difficult. Their values and career aspirations are often misunderstood and judged as inferior to those of older generations. Andrew Roth, founder and CEO of dcdx, notes that Gen Z isn’t indifferent to professionalism; they simply expect to be met halfway with the same level of respect they extend to their employers.
The key to overcoming this communication barrier may lie in finding common ground. By adopting a more authentic, straightforward, and respectful approach, employers and seasoned employees can create an environment where Gen Z feels valued and understood. After all, collaboration and communication are two-way streets, and meeting in the middle could be the solution to a more harmonious and productive workplace.