As communication styles evolve with the new workforce, Isobel McWilliams, head of HR at The Adaptavist Group, sheds light on how Gen Z’s digital upbringing shapes their interactions in the workplace. With misunderstandings stemming from differences in communicating via emojis versus traditional conversation, this article explores the evolving dynamics across generations.
Key Points
- Gen Z’s communication style is influenced by digital-first experiences, leading to strengths and tensions in workplace interactions.
- Misinterpretation of tone, emojis, and punctuation is a significant issue, with 43% of Gen Z workers facing misunderstandings due to emoji use.
- Older generations may view Gen Z’s preferences as unprofessional, while younger employees perceive traditional forms of communication as outdated.
- Structured mentoring and face-to-face opportunities can help bridge the generational communication gap.
- Gen Z is a value-driven, experimental generation focused on inclusivity and meaningful work, shaping a more human-centric workplace.
Why should I read this?
If you’re navigating the modern workplace, understanding how Gen Z communicates is crucial. This article pulls back the curtain on the generational divide in office communication, offering insights that can improve team dynamics and productivity. Plus, it might just save you from misreading those emoji-laden Slack messages!
