As a Millennial who's worked closely with Generation Z, I've found myself asking whether this new wave of professionals is truly challenging to collaborate with or if it's just a few individuals giving the entire generation a bad rap. Here’s my take, based on personal experiences and observations.
Vocal and Defensive: A Double-Edged Sword
One of the first things I've noticed about Gen Z is their tendency to be vocal about everything. While it's refreshing to see young professionals who aren't afraid to express their thoughts and concerns, there are times when this vocalism feels unnecessary. Not every situation requires deep analysis or a lengthy discussion. Sometimes, it’s as simple as getting the job done without needing to dissect every detail.
Additionally, I've observed that many in this generation seem to be in a constant state of defensiveness, especially when receiving feedback. This defensive stance often feels misplaced. Constructive criticism, meant to help them grow, is sometimes met with resistance that borders on irrationality. While it's understandable to want to protect oneself, not every critique is an attack on their character or abilities.
Different Work Values: A Generational Shift
Comparing Gen Z to Millennials, it's clear that our work values have evolved. As a Millennial, I’ve been taught to just push through challenges and get the work done, often without making a fuss. We tend to avoid unnecessary drama and confrontation, valuing our time and energy for more pressing tasks.
On the other hand, Gen Z seems to have embraced the 'woke' movement to the fullest. Many feel that any inconvenience at work is a violation of their basic rights, which can lead to conflicts when they perceive something as unfair or unjust. While it's important to stand up for what’s right, there’s a fine line between advocating for change and creating unnecessary conflict.
The Good Side of Gen Z
Of course, it’s not all bad with Gen Z. I admire their ability to speak up and be unafraid to address issues head-on. This boldness is something that my generation could learn from, as it ensures that problems are dealt with rather than swept under the rug. However, there’s also a need for balance. Not every issue needs to be addressed in public; some matters are better resolved behind closed doors.
Adapting to the New Normal
When faced with the challenges of working with Gen Z, my approach is often to lead by example. I've learned that they don’t like being told what to do, so instead of directing them, I demonstrate how things should be done and hope they catch on. It’s a subtle, non-confrontational way of guiding them, and it often works better than direct instructions.
A Generational Thing or Just Personality?
Looking back, it’s clear that Millennials have had to adapt to rapid changes. We’ve seen the world transform from brick phones to foldable screens, from extremist to liberal powers, all in the span of a few decades. This forced adaptability might be why we’re more inclined to “just get it done” without much fuss.
Gen Z, on the other hand, has grown up in a more advanced world. They didn’t experience the dramatic technological and societal shifts that we did, and this lack of historical context might contribute to their different approach to work. While individual personalities certainly play a role, I believe the generational divide is a significant factor in why they may seem challenging to work with.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag
So, is it the whole of Gen Z that’s hard to work with, or just a selected few? In my experience, it’s a bit of both. There are certainly challenges that come with this new generation, particularly in how they handle feedback and confrontation. However, they also bring valuable qualities to the table, like their boldness and awareness of their rights.
Ultimately, working with Gen Z requires a blend of patience, adaptability, and understanding. As Millennials, we’ve had our share of challenges, and now it’s our turn to help guide the next generation through theirs. After all, every generation has its strengths and weaknesses, and it’s up to us to find common ground and work together effectively.
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