The world isn’t the same as when our parents started their careers — and it’s not even like when we began. Today, a new generation is shaping the way we work. The big question: how will this impact us?
If you call remote collaborations and projects "working together," then yes, I do work with younger colleagues from Generation Z. My experience with them has been positive: they’re not lazy or irresponsible at all—in fact, they work with precision, focus, and consistency. (It’s clear they’re invested in their success, too.)
At the same time, they clearly aim to make their waking hours about more than just work. Their private lives, mental and physical health, and personal growth matter deeply to them. To me, that’s not a drawback but an inspiring example to follow.
The past few years have been a whirlwind: a global pandemic, digital transformation, economic ups and downs, and the rise of AI.
These experiences have opened Generation Z’s eyes—and ours too—to the fact that old workplace norms like "working while sick" or "always being available to your boss" are becoming less acceptable.
A recent 2025 U.S. survey showed many young people no longer admire those who work while ill. Colleagues showing up with a slight fever or flu symptoms are now seen as irresponsible rather than heroic or dedicated.
But It’s Not Just About Sickness
Flexibility is especially important to Generation Z. They don’t necessarily want to work from home all the time, but they clearly prefer hybrid models that give them freedom over their schedules. Autonomy matters too—they want to decide how they work, at what pace, and with what tools. This is often where they clash most with older colleagues.
Before diving deeper, let’s highlight mental well-being: for Gen Z, it’s fundamental to consider their own and others’ emotional states and to actively reduce stress and burnout risks.
They also want to work for companies that prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and equality.
It’s no surprise that studies repeatedly show Gen Z workers are willing to take a pay cut if it means fewer office days or more flexible hours. In return, they give their all when they find their work meaningful and feel valued and heard.
The last few years have accelerated expectations that were already emerging in all of us—posing challenges for employers too. How can companies balance their demands with young people’s need for freedom, variety, and tangible results? And how do we keep collaboration and teamwork strong when many work remotely or partially remote?
So, What Does This Mean for the Rest of Us?
Generation Z’s goals point us in a positive direction: healthier, more humane workplaces. But we must remember we’re in a transition period.
Most workplaces still don’t have Gen Z leaders, so adapting to new norms often falls on older generations. They’re the ones holding down the fort when others take time off, stepping in when younger colleagues decline overtime, and often trying to set the pace based on old habits—even as they sense the world is moving in a new direction.
Gen Z is often a true team player—but in a different way than we’re used to. They don’t believe in "everyone stays late until it’s done" solidarity. Instead, they believe everyone should contribute their part while staying authentic, balanced, and healthy.
For younger workers, collaboration is more project-based, goal-driven, and less about hierarchical loyalty. To older colleagues, this can seem cold, disrespectful, or selfish—but it’s really about setting new boundaries.
Change isn’t necessarily bad, but we definitely need to learn from each other. Generation Z highlights what previous generations often learned too late: burnout, constant pressure to perform, and overwork aren’t badges of honor. Yet they also have lessons to learn from us—like perseverance, responsibility to the community, and that sometimes work is not just self-expression but a shared team effort moving forward.
