Generations at Work 018: Why Gen Z is Changing the Workplace and How Leaders Can Adapt
Sep 23, 2025
Dr. Tim Elmore, a generational leadership expert and author of The Future Begins With Z, discusses how to effectively lead Generation Z in the workplace. He reveals alarming statistics on Gen Z's struggles, including high turnover and a skills gap between education and employment. Elmore introduces the Peter Pan Paradox, highlighting their unique blend of creativity and delayed maturity. He advocates for extended onboarding, mentorship, and the A-L-E-G framework to improve communication. The conversation is filled with practical strategies for fostering engagement and retaining young talent.
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Research Made Practical
- Tim Elmore turns Gen Z research into practical, actionable steps for leaders to apply immediately.
- He focuses on bridging generational thinking gaps rather than only presenting data.
High GPA, No Workplace Savvy
- A high-GPA new hire with no work experience quit by emailing the team after a week, showing skill gaps despite intellect.
- The team lost talent because she didn't know how to have hard conversations or follow workplace protocols.
Colin Webb's Missed Opportunity
- Colin Webb brought startup-level ideas into General Motors but was told to 'pay your dues' and left.
- Mary Barra liked his ideas, yet middle management blocked them and the company lost his talent.
