'They're a different breed': Manager goes viral sharing eye-opening moments of working with Gen Z employees

Work styles today have dramatically shifted from those of previous generations. While it was once common for people to endure 70-hour work weeks (case in point: Narayan Murthy), there's now a growing respect for work-life balance, with many refusing to overwork. Gen Z, in particular, is not to be trifled with. Now, a millennial manager is shedding light on what it's really like to work with Gen Z employees by sharing actual conversations with them.

Instagram

After hiring her first Gen Z employee in early 2024, 33-year-old Jamie Lynch quickly realised their approach to work-life balance was strikingly different.?

She told Newsweek that managing five Gen Z employees has been an eye-opener—and often entertaining.

Also read:?Gen Z Is Stressed At Work Due To Emails: Survey Reveals Gen Z Has 1,000+ Unread Messages

Based in Ontario, Canada, Lynch frequently shares snippets of her interactions with her Gen Z staff on Instagram. These phone calls often involve reasons why they can't complete tasks or why they might be running late.?

While she usually finds humor in their chaos, she admits it can be "frustrating when they're being lazy" or unwilling to overexert themselves.

Instagram

"They have very strong personal boundaries when it comes to their well-being," Lynch explained. "If they're tired, they won't push themselves, and they won't sacrifice their health for work. I respect this because, at their age, my managers would have fired me for calling in sick."

Although motivating them can be challenging and their reasons for calling in might seem outrageous, Lynch appreciates the fun and fresh perspective they bring.?

Also read:?'Same Cover Letters, Identical Responses': Career Coach Says Gen Z Is Misusing ChatGPT For Job Applications

"I am a little jealous of their personal boundaries—I haven't used a vacation day this year because I'm so dedicated to my job. Maybe I should be more like them."

Many of her clips featuring conversations with her Gen Z employees have gone viral, with one video garnering over 8.8 million views and more than 151,000 likes.

"They are a different breed for sure. We have lots to teach them, and lots to learn from them. They bring a light and fun atmosphere to the team that we were previously missing—even if it means laughing at their insane phone calls," she added.

Watch one of her videos here:

For more information on exams, results and careers, please visit? Indiatimes Education.