“They Only Do The Minimum”: Gen Z Worker Dispels Common Workplace Stereotypes About Their Generation

The differences between Gen Z and older generations in the workplace have been a frequent topic of discussion in recent years. From setting firmer boundaries to seeking fulfillment beyond a paycheck, younger workers are often seen as having different expectations of the workplace.

But are the workplace stereotypes of Gen Zs true? 

CNA Today intern and Gen Z employee Gerald Tan sits down with host Nat Fetalvero to discuss common Gen Z workplace stereotypes on CNA’s Work It podcast. It helps, too, that Gerald has been researching Gen Z stereotypes in the workplace for an upcoming article.

He revealed some of the most common perceptions older workers have about their younger counterparts.

“One of the complaints was that Gen Zs do the minimum at work, don’t respect their seniors and elders, and, [when it comes to work-life balance], focus only on the ‘life balance’ part and not really on the work part,” he said.

According to Gerald, conversations with HR consultants revealed a common theme behind these stereotypes, where Gen Z workers are generally more likely to set limits on how much work they are willing to take on.

However, when he spoke to Gen Z employees, he found that the issue was not a lack of ambition or “hunger”. Rather, many felt they were being asked to take on heavy amounts of work without being compensated fairly for it.

What sets Gen Z apart from older employees who may have faced similar workplace challenges? According to Gerald, a key difference is access to information and perspective.

He explained that compared to millennials, Gen Zs grew up in a less hierarchical environment that encouraged speaking up. Social media has also exposed them to a wider range of viewpoints and ideas about what work should look like, both locally and overseas.

On the idea that Gen Zs can be difficult to work with, both Nat and Gerald shared examples of younger employees refusing grunt work, preferring to focus on what they believe they were hired for.

“I think employers have to really balance that — try to give Gen Zs the experience, but at the same time not ask them to do all the menial work, do it with them” opined Gerald. 

Nat then hit back: “But if I’m the manager, and you’re telling me that I have to do this menial work with the Gen Z employee, I’m going to say 'I have so much other things on my plate, I don’t have time to hold your hand through these menial work'. And rightfully, you’re supposed to be doing these menial work. How are you getting frustrated so much earlier than everyone else, everyone has had to go through the same thing when they’re coming up in their careers.”

Gerald believes this may be because many Gen Z workers are afraid of making mistakes and feel they have little room for error. As a result, they often prefer to be shown the ropes before jumping into new tasks.

He added that they also want to see their seniors lead by example and be team players themselves.

He was then asked whether he would pick up a call from his manager at 8pm if his working hours are from 9am to 6pm.

“Honestly, on principle, no. If I’m being paid for 9 to 6 and you call me at 7pm, I don’t feel it’s right. But if I have a good working relationship with my manager or I understand the value of my work, I’m more likely to pick up,” he said.

“But most importantly, for people of my generation, if it’s something serious and you really need my help, call twice or drop me a message," he added. 

For those who feel Gen Zs should “pick up the call because we had to do it in the past,” Gerald said that mindset can come across as “toxic” — a “just because I suffered, you have to suffer too” mentality.

He stressed the importance of making work lighter and more enjoyable while still staying productive, adding that it’s not that Gen Zs don’t want to work or be team players, but that they believe work doesn’t have to be that way.

Gerald admitted that boundaries between work and life can be difficult to maintain, but said he focuses on delivering quality work on time while protecting his wellbeing, as it directly impacts performance.

Mental health is also a major priority for many Gen Z workers, who generally feel no job is worth compromising their wellbeing. Netizens also point out that better mental health at work can lead to better productivity, echoing Gerald’s point.

What's your take? Are Gen Z employees right to set boundaries and protect themselves from burnout, or do you find their approach hard to understand?

You can watch the full episode of the podcast here.

Photos: Thirdman/ Pexels, CNA