Into the New Gen Z eration

We've all been there – finding ourselves with different perspectives from a colleague about meetings, work messages, or "the way things are best done."

So why not ask our Gen Z and Milennial colleagues to share their honest take on workplace norms?

Turns out, we might have more in common than you'd think!

Is it acceptable to contact team members out of office hours?

Magdalene: Sometimes, I send messages when I recall something and need to note it down so I don’t forget the next day. But I don’t expect replies after working hours.

Jolyn: I greatly value my work-life balance and boundaries. Even if I don't have to answer immediately, seeing work messages can add to my mental load. If the issue is urgent, I'd appreciate a quick acknowledgement that it's after working hours.
 

Are face-to-face meetings always more effective?

Kevin: Not always. But I do prefer face-to-face for important things such as team bonding, career discussions and mentoring. More enjoyable too (especially with snacks).

Wendelynn: I see the merits of both! Virtual meetings can be efficient while face-to-face meetings help builds rapport.

Abbigail: Hard disagree! The commute, getting dressed up, worrying about how I'm sitting – it's exhausting. Virtual meetings let me focus on the actual content.
 

Should we turn on our cameras during video calls?

Magdalene: Yes, I think that facial expressions and body language are important for effective communication.

Jolyn: On some days, we might not be 'camera-ready' but we can still be fully engaged. I can adapt to different teams' norm though.
 

Do young people today have no work ethic?

Kevin: Definitely not! GenZs are smarter and more motivated than us. I've avoided many mistakes because of them speaking up. Maybe the older folks need to be more open-minded on our end.

Wendelynn: Times change and what worked previously might not work now. We value flexibility and our mental health, and I think that makes us better workers, not worse ones.

Abbigail: We need to define what 'work ethic' even means. I think we appear less rigid and more expressive, which should be seen as strengths and not flaws.

Magdalene: Work ethics isn't generational. You'll find dedicated, diligent and reliable colleagues across all age groups.
 

Turns out, whether you prefer virtual or face-to-face meetings, we are all here to do our best towards our common goals. The magic happens when we stay open-minded, remain respectful and remember that open communication is key!