August 2025
In recent decades, gentle parenting has been the popular method– now, critics of Gen Z’s work performance are opting for the FAFO (F– Around and Find Out) method of parenting, to avoid young adults who might shy away from conflict at work or feel the need to be coddled. Among parents, there will always be the fear of inadvertently raising a dictator, or conversely, a jellyfish, but workplaces can provide employee training to strike a balanced culture that is both resilient and emotionally intelligent. (The Wall Street Journal).
Tech job utopia is a dying ecosystem as tech giants embrace a “shut up and grind” culture, which is at odds with younger generations’ desire for value-based and flexible work. Mid-career professionals fear being replaced or left behind. Leaders can maintain internal trust by sticking to their promises and emphasizing employees’ impact. (Axios)
Men are falling behind in education, volunteership, and healthcare enrollment. Over 65% of men under the age of 30 think that “no one cares if men are okay.” Robert D. Putnam and Richard V. Reeves posit that America is due for a drastic civic response, like that of the Progressive era, which saw the rise of the Boy Scouts, the Y.M.C.A., and Big Brothers. Workplaces have a unique chance to support mentorship practices, build a sense of purpose, and encourage the use of mental health services. (The New York Times).
Young adults exhibit skepticism of unwavering work practices and the majority of Gen Zers expect to work for two to five organizations in their life, followed by 17% who expect to work for one, and 14% who expect to work for six to ten. Recognizing that Gen Z sees money as a means and not an end is a key insight for rethinking engagement strategies. (EY)
Over half of Gen Zers opt for freelance roles over the traditional 9 to 5, with 40% of them preferring jobs that help them grow quickly. What is often construed as job-hopping is actually a habit more indicative of Gen Z’s need to be “stretched” and design a career of their own through multiple opportunities. Companies should offer rotational roles, chances to shadow workers in other departments, and project-based work to retain the gig generation. (Business Insider)
Golf—often a symbol of exclusivity and corporate elitism—is being reinvigorated by Gen Z and Millennials as a platform for connection, inclusivity, and development. Instead of the formal 18 holes, a casual 9 hole game or trip to a golf entertainment venue serves as a fun way for young colleagues to network and talk shop. Leaders can forgo the office and take to the green to encourage natural and productive conversation. (Worklife)
“Coldplaygate,” for better or worse, has thrust office romances into the spotlight. Fully 86% of employees say that remote work has fueled in-office relationships, and 41% of those coupled-up admitted that their partner was a supervisor. Remote work may muddle this already complicated matter, so it is important for companies to have policies that lay out clear guidelines. (Forbes)