HR expert Marcia Homer discusses the workplace dynamics between Gen X managers and Gen Z employees. She explains how different generational upbringings create workplace conflicts - Gen X grew up as independent "latchkey kids" while Gen Z is the most connected and supervised generation ever. Homer emphasizes that Gen Z isn't lazy but wants to work differently, seeking purpose, flexibility, and growth over grinding. The solution lies in improved communication, patience, and non-judgmental curiosity from all generations.

TAKEAWAYS

• Different upbringings create conflict: Gen X developed independence while Gen Z grew up highly supervised and digitally connected
• Gen Z seeks purpose over burnout: They want meaningful work, flexibility, and regular feedback rather than grinding for status
• Communication is key: Success requires patience, clear expectations, and non-judgmental curiosity from all generations

[00:38] - How Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z grew up differently

[01:06] - Gen X as "latchkey kids" - independent, unsupervised upbringing

[02:30] - Gen X values: resilience, "suck it up" mentality, separating work and personal life

[04:26] - Gen Z as most connected and supervised generation ever

[04:56] - Impact of major events on Gen Z: 9/11, 2008 crisis, climate change, COVID

[06:28] - Workplace conflicts between Gen X managers and Gen Z employees

[10:45] - COVID's impact on workplace dynamics and remote work shift

[11:22] - Debunking the "Gen Z is lazy" myth

[11:53] - What Gen Z actually wants: purpose, flexibility, growth over grind

[13:26] - The positive shift Gen Z brings to workplace conversations

[14:44] - Advice for Gen Z: slow down and learn the rules of the game first

[16:55] - Gen Z prefers real-time feedback over annual performance reviews

[19:04] - Gen Z tendency to overshare personal information at work

[21:05] - Gen Z's digital tool proficiency and time management skills

[22:57] - Career development conversations with Gen Z

[25:28] - The core solution: better communication and psychological safety

[27:24] - Approaching conflicts with "non-judgmental curiosity"

[29:11] - Communicating across multiple generations as a senior leader

[31:56] - Key motivators for Gen Z retention and engagement

[34:22] - Skills leaders need for 2030 workforce dominated by Gen Z

[36:34] - Resources: "Play the Game" book and GenZWorkplaceFixes.com

A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST

Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws

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