I'm a career coach for Gen Z workers. Here are some unspoken workplace rules every new hire should know.

Laura Massetti, a career coach for young workers, reveals that Gen Z employees have difficulty navigating the unspoken rules of the workplace and require professional training. Massetti, who spent 15 years leading teams, observed that Gen Z workers struggle with communication, judgment, and follow-through. As AI advances, technical skills become less critical, and human skills can help young professionals stand out in the job market.

This essay, based on a conversation with Massetti, highlights the need for early-career workers to develop workplace skills. Massetti, who has extensive corporate experience, suggests that young workers often need to figure out unspoken workplace expectations that are not clearly outlined in a rubric.

Gen Z workers, accustomed to instant feedback through social media, may find the slower pace of traditional workplaces challenging. The lack of face-to-face interaction and opportunities to practice professional behaviors during the pandemic has created gaps in their development. Moreover, AI is taking over tasks that once helped workers grow through hands-on experiences.

Young employees are judged on various aspects that are not explicitly outlined, such as communication, clarity, prioritization, judgment, follow-through, professional presence, ownership, reliability, and organizational awareness. They need to learn how to effectively communicate through different channels like email, Slack, and in-person interactions. Dressing appropriately for different environments is another important aspect that should not be assumed.

Massetti emphasizes that managers also play a crucial role in helping young workers navigate the workplace. She suggests that managers should regularly assess whether new hires are receiving the necessary training and feedback to develop the human skills that set them apart in the workplace. She recommends that companies offer a six-month program that combines online training with role-playing exercises to help young workers gain practical experience in handling various workplace scenarios.

According to Massetti, while technical skills remain essential, the ability to communicate effectively, exercise judgment, execute ideas, and gain buy-in from colleagues will differentiate successful employees in today's competitive job market.