Gen Z communicates differently in the workplace, but older colleagues can still decode them

Gen Z workers often communicate differently than older colleagues at work, but older employees can still understand them. Their communication styles differ based on the environment they grew up in. The oldest Gen Z members pursued college, internships or their first jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic, when much communication shifted online and masks were common. This has led to a new way of communicating, distinct from previous generations.

One example is being late for work. A Gen Z employee at a café owned by an older Gen X person texted him when she realized she'd be late. The boss was frustrated, as a phone call seemed more appropriate to him. The employee, however, thought texting was more considerate, given the boss's busy schedule. Both believed they understood respectful communication, but had different definitions.

Another issue is openness and sharing personal information. A Gen Z worker with severe anxiety confided in his baby boomer manager about his condition. The manager was sympathetic but uneasy, feeling uncomfortable with the personal disclosure. The young employee expected this openness to be considered honest, while the older manager felt it crossed professional boundaries.

Finally, deadlines can be a source of confusion. A Gen Z employee sent a document to a manager by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, even though the manager expected it by 9 a.m. The young worker met the deadline, but the manager was annoyed. This highlights the need for clear expectations, as younger workers may want clarity and autonomy, while older colleagues may prefer hand-holding.