HR expert Marcia Homer discusses the workplace dynamics between Gen X managers and Gen Z employees. She explains how different generational upbringings create workplace conflicts – Gen X grew up as independent “latchkey kids” while Gen Z is the most connected and supervised generation ever. Homer emphasizes that Gen Z isn’t lazy but wants to work differently, seeking purpose, flexibility, and growth over grinding. The solution lies in improved communication, patience, and non-judgmental curiosity from all generations.
TAKEAWAYS
- Different upbringings create conflict: Gen X developed independence while Gen Z grew up highly supervised and digitally connected
- Gen Z seeks purpose over burnout: They want meaningful work, flexibility, and regular feedback rather than grinding for status
- Communication is key: Success requires patience, clear expectations, and non-judgmental curiosity from all generations
[00:38] – How Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z grew up differently
[01:06] – Gen X as “latchkey kids” – independent, unsupervised upbringing
[02:30] – Gen X values: resilience, “suck it up” mentality, separating work and personal life
[04:26] – Gen Z as most connected and supervised generation ever
[04:56] – Impact of major events on Gen Z: 9/11, 2008 crisis, climate change, COVID
[06:28] – Workplace conflicts between Gen X managers and Gen Z employees
[10:45] – COVID’s impact on workplace dynamics and remote work shift
[11:22] – Debunking the “Gen Z is lazy” myth
[11:53] – What Gen Z actually wants: purpose, flexibility, growth over grind
[13:26] – The positive shift Gen Z brings to workplace conversations
[14:44] – Advice for Gen Z: slow down and learn the rules of the game first
[16:55] – Gen Z prefers real-time feedback over annual performance reviews
[19:04] – Gen Z tendency to overshare personal information at work
[21:05] – Gen Z’s digital tool proficiency and time management skills
[22:57] – Career development conversations with Gen Z
[25:28] – The core solution: better communication and psychological safety
[27:24] – Approaching conflicts with “non-judgmental curiosity”
[29:11] – Communicating across multiple generations as a senior leader
[31:56] – Key motivators for Gen Z retention and engagement
[34:22] – Skills leaders need for 2030 workforce dominated by Gen Z
[36:34] – Resources: “Play the Game” book and GenZWorkplaceFixes.com
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