19 Office Habits That Make Gen Z Roll Their Eyes at Other Generations
Gen Z is bringing fresh ideas, tech-savvy skills, and a demand for authenticity into the workplace. But generational differences can create friction, especially with their Gen X and Millennial coworkers.
From outdated habits to misunderstandings about work culture, some behaviors just don’t sit well with this younger, digitally native group. If you want to keep the peace and foster collaboration, take note of these 19 things Gen Z wishes older colleagues would stop doing.
Overusing Office Jargon
Gen Z appreciates clarity and directness, not buzzwords. Terms like “circle back,” “low-hanging fruit,” or “ping me” feel unnecessarily performative.
This generation values communication that’s authentic and straightforward, so ditch the corporate lingo and say what you mean.
Assuming They’re Always on Their Phones
Yes, Gen Z loves their devices, but they’re often using them for work-related tasks like answering emails or managing social media. Constantly commenting on or policing their phone use feels dismissive. Trust them to know when it’s appropriate.
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Romanticizing the Grind Culture
The “I worked 80 hours this week” brag doesn’t impress Gen Z. They prioritize work-life balance and mental health, viewing burnout as a red flag, not a badge of honor.
Instead of glorifying overwork, focus on creating sustainable practices.
Dismissing Remote Work Preferences
Gen Z grew up online and thrives in flexible environments. Insisting on in-person meetings or rigid office hours feels archaic to them.
They value results over appearances, so embrace hybrid or remote options when possible.
Using Outdated Technology
Nothing frustrates tech-savvy Gen Z more than clunky systems or outdated processes. They expect workplaces to adopt tools that streamline tasks, like collaborative apps or cloud-based platforms.
Resistance to tech upgrades feels inefficient and unnecessary.
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Oversharing Personal Stories
While Gen Z appreciates authenticity, they draw the line at overly personal or irrelevant anecdotes. Constantly reliving your high school glory days or venting about personal drama can feel like a time-waster. Keep conversations focused and professional.
Ignoring Pronouns and Inclusive Language
Gen Z values inclusivity and expects coworkers to respect pronouns and diverse identities. Missteps may happen, but consistently dismissing these practices feels disrespectful.
Making an effort to use inclusive language goes a long way.
Refusing to Adapt to Changing Norms
Statements like “That’s how it’s always been done” are a quick way to alienate Gen Z. They’re driven by innovation and find resistance to change frustrating.
Be open to new ideas and collaborative ways of working.
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Criticizing Their Informal Communication Style
Gen Z grew up texting and using emojis, so their emails or messages may feel casual. Instead of nitpicking their tone, focus on the content. They value substance over formality.
Micromanaging Every Detail
Gen Z thrives in environments where they’re trusted to do their work without constant oversight. Micromanaging feels stifling and demoralizing. Give them autonomy, and they’ll prove themselves capable.
Shaming Them for Job-Hopping
Unlike older generations, Gen Z sees job changes as a way to grow, not a sign of disloyalty. Criticizing their career moves feels out of touch.
Instead, focus on making the workplace engaging so they’ll want to stay.
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Overloading Meetings With No Clear Purpose
Gen Z dislikes long, unnecessary meetings. They prefer quick updates via email or concise virtual check-ins.
Meetings without a clear agenda are seen as time-wasters in their productivity-focused mindset.
Being Too Formal With Feedback
Gen Z appreciates immediate, informal feedback rather than drawn-out reviews or formalized critiques. Quick check-ins and clear guidance are more effective than overcomplicated evaluation processes.
Frowning Upon Side Hustles
Gen Z values financial independence and creative outlets, often juggling side gigs. Dismissing or discouraging their entrepreneurial spirit can feel like a lack of support.
Encourage their drive instead of labeling it a distraction.
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Dismissing Mental Health Days
Gen Z is vocal about the importance of mental health and sees taking mental health days as a necessity, not a luxury. Rolling your eyes at this practice feels dismissive.
Supporting their well-being creates a healthier workplace for everyone.
Talking Down About Social Media Skills
Gen Z grew up with social media and sees it as a legitimate tool for marketing, networking, and learning. Mocking their expertise or dismissing social media as frivolous undermines their contributions to modern workplace strategies.
Assuming They Lack Work Ethic
Just because Gen Z prioritizes balance doesn’t mean they’re lazy. They work hard, but they don’t equate productivity with suffering.
Recognize their dedication instead of assuming they aren’t pulling their weight.
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Overloading Them With Tradition-Laden Rituals
For Gen Z, overly formal traditions like elaborate holiday parties or rigid dress codes can feel outdated. They value authentic, relaxed environments and don’t see the need for unnecessary pomp and ceremony.
Refusing to Learn From Them
Gen Z brings fresh perspectives and skills to the table, especially in areas like tech and social awareness. Ignoring their ideas or assuming they have nothing to teach you creates unnecessary divides.
Collaboration works both ways.
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