Five Low-Cost or No-Cost Tactics Navigating Gen Z’s Workplace

The best way to conquer this divide is to find common ground, adapt our own thinking, communicate and collaborate.

Shannon Gabriel, Vice President of Leadership Solutions Practice, talks about how many leaders are struggling to navigate the expectations of Gen-Z. The disconnect and “we/them” attitude leads to conflict, assumptions and stereotypes: I often hear leaders say that today’s young people are lazy, don’t want to work or need too much handholding.

Considering a recent survey found that 28% of employees plan to quit their jobs in 2024, with Gen-Z and young Millennials being the most likely to quit, now is the time to begin the shift toward meeting Gen-Z’s expectations so you can increase retention and get ahead of increased quits this year.

Five low-cost or no-cost tactics that take very little effort but can make a very big impact.

Close the empathy gap
Give them a voice
Be flexible
Train leaders to interview Gen-Z
Create multigenerational task forces

As leaders, we need to acknowledge that our way of doing things isn’t always right. Gen-Z deserves to build the future they want to work and live in. After all, the future is theirs, not ours, and that means we must adapt to their needs, not vice versa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Gen Z employees require a different approach in the workplace?

Gen Z employees require a different approach because they have distinct expectations around communication, purpose, and feedback compared to previous generations. The article explains that Gen Z values clarity, frequent engagement, and a sense that their work matters. When organizations rely on outdated management practices, younger employees are more likely to disengage or leave, increasing turnover and instability.

What low‑cost or no‑cost tactics help engage and retain Gen Z workers?

The article highlights tactics such as clearer expectations, more frequent feedback, visible leadership engagement, and stronger onboarding experiences. These actions do not require significant financial investment but instead focus on how leaders manage and communicate daily. When Gen Z employees understand what success looks like and receive regular coaching, engagement and retention improve.

How do these tactics benefit the broader organization, not just Gen Z?

These tactics benefit the entire organization by strengthening execution discipline, communication, and leadership effectiveness. The article emphasizes that clarity, consistency, and engagement improve performance across all generations. By adopting practices that resonate with Gen Z, organizations build stronger management systems that improve alignment, productivity, and workforce stability overall.

Meet the Expert

Shannon Gabriel

Vice President, Leadership Solutions PracticeEmail Shannon

Shannon Gabriel is Vice President of TBM’s Leadership Solutions practice where she leads the organization’s comprehensive approach to labor strategy, change management and leadership development that impact top-line growth and improve organizational culture.