Managers report stress, increased workload, and challenges adapting to the expectations of younger workers
Intelligent.com, a platform dedicated to helping young professionals navigate the future of work, has released new findings on the challenges managers face overseeing Generation Z employees. In a survey conducted in October 2024, 1,000 U.S. managers shared their experiences, revealing high levels of stress and frustration with the newest workforce cohort.
Among key findings, 18% of managers report they have considered quitting due to the strain of managing Gen Z workers.
“Managers may need to adjust their approach, acting more as coaches than traditional supervisors to better support and guide younger workers.”
The survey highlights specific challenges in managing Gen Z employees, including excessive phone use, poor work ethic, and communication issues that impact team cohesion and productivity. Over half of the managers surveyed report increased workload and the need for additional resources to manage Gen Z employees, with many saying these workers require more guidance and attention than previous generations.
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The survey found that 51% of managers experience frustration and 44% feel stress in managing Gen Z employees, with issues like workload increase (27%) and productivity declines (20%) among their top concerns. Additionally, 20% feel overwhelmed and 16% report burnout due to the demands of managing this group.
“Part of the frustration comes from a misalignment in expectations,” says Huy Nguyen, Intelligent.com’s chief education and career development advisor. “Gen Z employees often bring strong technical skills but may lack the soft skills that develop through hands-on experience, which many missed out on during the pandemic. Managers may need to adjust their approach, acting more as coaches than traditional supervisors to better support and guide younger workers.”
The majority of managers (65%) have adjusted their management style to better accommodate Gen Z employees. This includes providing more frequent feedback (44%), micromanaging (38%), and allowing more time for tasks (32%). Three-quarters of managers feel that Gen Z requires more time and resources to manage effectively compared to older generations, with 54% having experienced inappropriate communication from Gen Z employees.
Over half of managers (52%) report that Gen Z employees create tension with older generations, primarily due to differences in workplace attitudes, communication styles, and priorities. Additionally, 54% of managers say Gen Z work habits lower team productivity.
Given these challenges, 50% of managers have fired a Gen Z employee, and 27% would avoid hiring Gen Z if possible. Despite this, managers cite filling junior roles, cost-effectiveness, and concerns over ageism as reasons to continue hiring Gen Z.
This online poll was commissioned by Intelligent.com and conducted on Pollfish in October 2024. A total of 1,000 U.S. managers completed the survey. Demographic criteria and screening questions were used to ensure qualified respondents.
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