Summarised by Centrist
Whether it’s being too easily offended, showing up late, or needing mum and dad at their job interviews, Gen Z hires—those born between 1996 and 2010—just aren’t cutting it.
According to a recent poll by Intelligent.com of 966 business leaders, 75% find recent college grads unprepared for the professional world, with 60% stating they’ve had to fire some of them. Some even claim that these hires lack basic communication skills, professionalism, and motivation.
About 39% said Gen Z workers have poor communication skills, and 19% noted they don’t dress or speak professionally.
Additionally, 20% said they often arrive late, and 15% reported late assignment submissions.
Huy Nguyen, an advisor for Intelligent, suggests that the generational clash stems from Gen Z’s exposure to a myriad of news sources and influences. “So when they go into a company that has more traditional norms, you get a situation where it doesn’t always mesh,” he said.
Jessen James, an entrepreneur and business mentor, goes further, describing a phenomenon he calls “snowflakeism,” where some young employees “crumble” under the slightest pressure.
James notes that some Gen Zers struggle to maintain eye contact or project their voices during conversations.
Many companies have turned to mandating “office etiquette training,” especially for Gen Z employees.
