Disillusioned Gen Z Intern Informs Supervisor of Temporary Absence, Citing Work Atmosphere as Unsuitable and Unaligned with Personal Preferences
In the bustling world of an AI startup, a manager oversees a team of three Gen Z interns. One of these interns, feeling overwhelmed and not quite getting the right "vibe" at work, sent an unexpected email requesting a leave without notice.
The email, which the manager found bizarre, was compared to something they had never seen in their 20 years of working. Attached to the email were a train PNR and Goibibo booking slip for reference.
The manager, rather than reprimanding the intern, found their honesty appreciable and approved the leave. However, the incident raised questions about Gen Z's readiness for the workforce, as some perceive such behavior as a lack of professionalism or maturity.
Common stereotypes about Gen Z in the workplace include perceptions that they lack technological skills, show low effort and motivation, have poor communication skills, and exhibit immaturity or lack of professionalism. For instance, the so-called "Gen Z stare," a vacant, unresponsive facial expression, is often interpreted as unprofessional or passive-aggressive.
Taking unapproved or last-minute time off, citing subjective reasons like workplace mood, can also frustrate management and disrupt workflow. Some Gen Zers may also struggle with feedback, perceived as difficulty coping with criticism in professional settings.
It's important to note that many Gen Z workers entered the workforce amid the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected their training and socialization at work. Some critiques may reflect typical intergenerational misunderstandings that every new workforce generation encounters.
Moreover, inflation is a factor, meaning that even if a Gen Zer has a good job, their money isn't doing as much for them as it did for their parents. The article does not repeat earlier facts about the intern's situation at the AI startup.
Despite these challenges, Gen Z is the second-most educated generation after millennials. Mary-Faith Martinez, a writer who covers news, psychology, lifestyle, and human interest topics, finds it strange to claim you need a break from work because of the vibe. She emphasizes the importance of finding better ways to ask for time off without being unprofessional.
In conclusion, understanding and navigating the unique challenges faced by Gen Z in the workforce requires a blend of empathy, patience, and open communication. As the workforce continues to evolve, it's crucial to find ways to foster a productive and respectful environment for all generations.
- Mary-Faith Martinez, a writer who covers news, psychology, and lifestyle, suggests finding better ways to ask for time off without being unprofessional.
- The intern's request for a leave without notice, attached with a train PNR and Goibibo booking slip, was compared to something never seen in the manager's 20 years of working.
- Personal-growth and career-development resources might benefit Gen Z workers who struggle with criticism in professional settings or find it difficult to cope with feedback.
- The article acknowledges that inflation means that even if a Gen Zer has a good job, their money isn't doing as much for them as it did for their parents.
