On the Job – How Gen Z is Performing in the Workplace
As a Gen Zer navigating the modern workplace, I’ve seen how our generation’s entry into the workforce has sparked both admiration and frustration. We’re praised for our tech-savviness and fresh ideas, but we’re also labeled as “unprofessional” or “hard to manage.” So, what’s going on?
In this second part of our Gen Z series, we’ll dive into how Gen Z is performing on the job—our strengths, our struggles, and the systemic factors shaping our workplace experiences.
Workplace Performance and Adaptation: The Good, The Bad, and The Misunderstood
Let’s start with the good stuff. Gen Z’s digital fluency is undeniable. Having grown up with smartphones and social media, we bring a level of technological adaptability that older generations often struggle to match.
A 2024 Deloitte report found that 82% of Gen Z employees feel confident using new workplace technologies, compared to just 68% of Millennials and 54% of Gen Xers. Our comfort with remote collaboration tools like Slack, Zoom, and Asana makes us natural fits for hybrid work environments.
Beyond tech, Gen Z is also shaking up traditional workplace hierarchies. We value transparency, feedback, and purpose-driven work. Also, Gen Z employees prioritize companies that offer clear career progression and mentorship—something many older workplaces still struggle to provide.
Now, the not-so-great part. Critics argue that Gen Z struggles with workplace norms—showing up late, dressing too casually, or pushing back against rigid structures. Gen Z employees risk being fired within their first month, with issues like tardiness and lack of preparedness.
Some employers complain about Gen Z’s tendency to question authority or reject the “paying dues” culture, which can clash with traditional corporate environments. But here’s the thing: Are these really flaws or just mismatched expectations?
What Does “Professionalism” Even Mean in 2025?
The term “professionalism” gets thrown around a lot, but its definition is evolving. For older generations, it might mean strict dress codes, formal emails, and hierarchical respect. For Gen Z? It’s more about authenticity, efficiency, and work-life balance.
Some see our preference for casual communication as unprofessional, while others argue it fosters better collaboration. Though this argument will continue to linger, as a result of generational gaps, Gen Zs need to understand the comportment that comes with being a professional.
Where Gen Z Might Need to Adapt
While some critiques are overblown, there’s truth to the idea that Gen Z could benefit from better onboarding. Many of us enter jobs with little guidance on unwritten workplace rules—like when to speak up in meetings or how to navigate office politics.
How do we change things? Properly structured mentorship programs can change the tide of things when it comes to building a great professional culture. Companies can pair newly hired Gen Z with other experienced to ensure that they can absorb and learn how things are done.
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Performance Management: Why Some Gen Z Employees Struggle
There are different reasons why many Gen Z employees struggle at work, but the following are some of the suspected reasons:
The Commitment Conundrum
Gen Z's tendency to change jobs frequently often gets misinterpreted as lack of dedication. But dig deeper and you'll find this generation simply refuses to stay in roles where they don't feel valued or challenged. Unlike previous generations who might have tolerated unfulfilling jobs for years, Gen Z would rather take the risk of starting fresh than remain in positions that don't align with their goals.
The Onboarding Experience Gap
Many Gen Z employees report feeling unprepared when entering traditional workplaces. Without proper training and clear expectations, even the most capable young professionals can flounder. The sink-or-swim approach that worked for previous generations often backfires with Gen Z, who thrive on structure and clear guidelines during their initial months.
The Flexibility Factor
For Gen Z, work-life balance isn't a perk - it's a fundamental expectation. Rigid schedules and mandatory office attendance often clash with this generation's view of productivity. When forced into traditional office routines without justification, their performance and morale frequently suffer, sometimes leading to premature departures.
Final Thoughts: It’s a Two-Way Street
Not all Gen Zs are lazy or entitled; many are just demanding workplaces that align with our values. At the same time, we must recognize that every generation brings different strengths and blind spots.
Mutual adaptation can never be overemphasized. Employers who listen to Gen Z’s needs will unlock a powerhouse of innovation. And Gen Zers who master the art of professional navigation will rise faster than ever.
Next up in this series: Part 3 – Managerial Perspectives – Why Some Leaders Struggle with Gen Z. Stay tuned!
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Meet The Writer!
I'm Favour, a content writer, copywriter, and graphics designer with a passion for making brands shine. I help businesses and individuals create content and designs that convert. My goal? Make your brand awesome, one word/image at a time. When I'm not working, you can find me playing (bad) football, eating (too much), or watching football highlights (guilty pleasure!). Do you want to say something to me or do you want me to be of help? Connect with me via this link.
