Article Details
  • Published Online:
    March  2025
  • Product Name:
    The IUP Journal of Effective Executive
  • Product Type:
    Article
  • Product Code:
    IJEE020325
  • DOI:
    10.71329/EffectiveExecutive/2025.28.1.37-46
  • Author Name:
    Stephanie Jones, Tamás Németh and Una Radulovi􀆥 Zeki􀆥
  • Availability:
    YES
  • Subject/Domain:
    Management
  • Download Format:
    PDF
  • Pages:
    37-46
Volume 28, Issue 1, March 2025
Leading and Managing Gen Z in the Workplace: Challenges for Boomers, Gen X and Millennials
Abstract

Leading and managing generations in the workplace is challenging, but particularly now as Generation Z (Gen Z)—born between 1995 and 2009—are new recruits, with distinct values, communication styles, and workplace expectations. With digitalization, AI and smart devices, Gen Z see the world differently from Boomers, Gen X and Millennials. Most Gen Zs are technology savvy, focused on the here-and-now, expecting constant connectivity, requiring flexible working hours and work-life balance, purpose, meaningful engagement with socially-responsible ideals, pragmatic career goals, and a competitive salary. Leaders need to provide a strong culture supporting mental health; respect how central tech is to the Gen Z experience; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and career growth through opportunities for development. Gen Z are the unavoidable future.

Introduction

Generation Z—born between 1995 and 2009— are the youngest new recruits into the workplace, and see the world in a new and different way. Their leaders, managers and coworkers— Boomers, Gen X and Millennials— often struggle to understand and appreciate them, but they must, as Gen Z are the future. The oldest, at 30, are already making their mark.