Despite stereotypes that Gen Z workers are lazy and entitled, some business leaders are pushing back against these claims. Sally Massey, the chief human resources officer at Colgate-Palmolive, praises Gen Z for being ambitious, tech-savvy, and bringing new ideas and perspectives to the workplace. She notes that the company is revamping its chain of command to encourage the flow of ideas between generations and ranks, allowing senior leaders to hear from entry-level staffers. This approach has helped to bridge the divide between age groups and foster a more collaborative work environment.
Other business leaders, such as Emily Glassberg Sands, head of data and AI at Stripe, and Matt Huang, cofounder of Paradigm, also value Gen Z’s tech skills and fresh ideas. They recognize that while young employees may come with drawbacks, their unique perspectives and skills are worth the investment. For example, Huang notes that his company’s young employees can create “an absurd amount of chaos” but also produce exceptional results.
Experts like Suzy Welch, a professor of management practice at New York University, and Mel Robbins, a millionaire podcaster, also defend Gen Z against lazy stereotypes. They argue that Gen Zers face unique economic and environmental challenges that previous generations did not, and that they are under immense stress and pressure. Welch notes that Gen Zers have no reason to believe they will have economic security, and that they are worried about the future of the planet. Robbins encourages critics to consider what it’s like to be a twentysomething today, with a chaotic world and unpredictable economy.
These business leaders and experts recognize that Gen Zers are not lazy or entitled, but rather, they are a product of their environment and are navigating a rapidly changing world. By embracing their unique skills and perspectives, companies can tap into their creativity and innovation, and create a more collaborative and successful work environment. As Massey notes, “They bring with them new ideas, new perspectives, curiosity… They’re pushing us to get better and to do things differently—I think it’s great.” By valuing and supporting Gen Z workers, companies can unlock their full potential and drive business success.