Communication Skills in Gen Z's Workplace: Navigating the Trends
Labeled as the "Most Susceptible Generation" following media behavior examination
The digital-first age of Gen Z (1997-2012) has brought a fresh perspective to the workplace, but it's not without hurdles.
Digital Roots, Professional Woes
This tech-savvy generation, raised on platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram, often struggles to maintain a formal tone in professional settings. Missing out on the traditional workplace onboarding during the pandemic has also left them wrestling with learning professional etiquettes [1].
Skills Gap in the Workforce
Employers have noticed a noticeable gap in Gen Z's soft skills, particularly in areas like communication, teamwork, and interpersonal relations [2][3].
How Gen Z Ticks
Gen Z values authenticity, transparency, and a human touch in leadership [5]. They're also drawn to workplaces that prioritize well-being, inclusion, and purpose, striving to make their contributions matter [5]. Digital communication is preferred, but face-to-face interactions are still cherished for deeper collaboration [5].
info: Media Literacy Gap
As digital natives, Gen Z may lack the ability to critically evaluate the information they consume online, contributing to difficulties discerning fact from fiction. Factors include their digital upbringing, limited media literacy, and the influence of social media platforms promoting engagement over accuracy [4].
Encouraging Critical Thinking and Media Literacy in Gen Z
To tackle these challenges, Gen Z needs to develop critical thinking and media literacy skills. Leaders can help by fostering an environment that encourages questioning, transparent communication, and the pursuit of reliable sources [4].
- In an opinion piece on the trends in Gen Z's workplace, it was noted that while they value authenticity and prioritize well-being, their digital roots sometimes impede their ability to maintain a professional tone, particularly in areas of communication and teamwork.
- Amidst the discussion on the skills gap in the workforce, the importance of education-and-self-development was highlighted, as Gen Z workers could benefit from learning critical thinking and media literacy skills to help discern fact from fiction in the age of digital news.
- Given the critical role of communication skills in politics and general-news settings, it might be wise for Gen Z professionals to focus on honing their communication abilities to navigate the professional, as well as the general, landscape effectively.
