Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is transforming the modern workforce. As the first true digital natives, Gen Z brings a fresh perspective to communication, shaped by smartphones, social media, and instant connectivity. For frontline supervisors, understanding how Gen Z prefers to communicate is essential for building trust, improving teamwork, and boosting retention.
Whether you lead a retail floor, restaurant, hotel, or warehouse team, embracing Gen Z’s communication style will help you build more responsive, resilient teams. This all starts with knowing the key features of Gen Z workplace communication and equipping yourself with strategies for fostering strong intergenerational collaboration.
Key Features of Gen Z Communication in the Workplace
Have Gen Z workers? Look out for these features in their communication styles.
1. Fast, Informal, and Direct Communication
Gen Z favors brevity and clarity. They often communicate in short, direct messages that get straight to the point. They’re less interested in traditional corporate formality and more interested in real-time updates and action.
Example: Instead of a formal request like “Dear Manager, I would like to request next Thursday off,” a Gen Z team member might simply text: “Hey, can I take next Thurs off? Need to visit family.”
This isn’t disrespect, it’s efficiency. Recognizing and adapting to this tone helps to eliminate misunderstandings and streamlines decision-making.
2. Preference for Instant Messaging Over Email
Email, while still essential, feels slow and cumbersome to many Gen Z employees. They’ve grown up communicating in real time via apps like WhatsApp, Snapchat, Discord, and Slack. As a result, they prefer tools that allow immediate interaction and quick resolution.
A 2023 Impellus study found that 68.9% of Gen Z prefer texting or instant messaging over email when communicating in the workplace.
For managers of deskless teams, this has major implications. Learning management systems like Axonify support Gen Z communication preferences by incorporating instant messaging, push notifications, and timeline-style updates. These tools give supervisors a way to stay connected with their teams in real time, even when they’re working across shifts or locations.
Platforms like Axonify also offer microlearning modules that help frontline teams strengthen communication across generations. That’s especially valuable in environments where Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z all work side-by-side.
Example: A Gen Z barista might send a quick message through the company app: “Out of almond milk. Let customers know. Already called delivery.” That quick update prevents confusion and models proactive thinking.
3. Visual and Expressive Communication
For Gen Z, visuals matter. They often communicate using emojis, memes, GIFs, and videos. These tools add tone and personality to digital conversations. Far from being frivolous, visual communication helps Gen Z clarify meaning and create emotional connection.
Example: When thanking a coworker in a team group chat, a Gen Z employee might write: “Appreciate you! 🙌” or send a celebratory GIF. These small touches make recognition more engaging and immediate.
Leaders who understand the power of visual communication can use it to motivate and connect more effectively.
4. Desire for Immediate, Ongoing Feedback
Gen Z thrives on continuous feedback. Raised in the age of likes, comments, and instant updates, they’re accustomed to knowing how they’re doing at any given moment. They don’t want to wait for a formal quarterly review to learn how to improve. They want to grow in real time.
Example: After completing a new customer service training, a Gen Z employee might approach their supervisor and ask, “How’d I do? Anything I should fix?” That eagerness for feedback is an opportunity to reinforce good habits and course-correct early.
Tip: Providing continuous feedback doesn’t mean micromanaging. It means offering small, frequent doses of feedback (both positive and constructive) so Gen Z employees stay aligned, motivated, and engaged.
5. Strong Emphasis on Inclusion and Social Awareness
Gen Z values equity, authenticity, and representation. They expect inclusive communication and are attuned to language and behavior that welcomes diverse backgrounds. They want their teams to reflect real-world identities and be safe spaces for all.
Example: Instead of defaulting to gendered phrases like “you guys,” Gen Z often uses neutral terms like “team,” “everyone,” or “folks.” A Gen Z employee may also gently correct outdated language, not out of criticism, but out of a desire for fairness.
Supervisors who are proactive about inclusive language and are open to learning will earn Gen Z’s respect and loyalty.
6. Comfort With Multitasking and Digital Tools
Gen Z is impressively adept at juggling tasks across multiple devices and platforms. They don’t consider it a distraction to switch between apps, messages, and digital tools. It’s simply how they operate.
Example: A Gen Z warehouse team member might track inventory through a mobile app, respond to a group message about a shift change, and watch a two-minute safety video on their break, all without missing a beat.
Managers who offer efficient, mobile-friendly systems for communication and training empower Gen Z employees to succeed in the way that feels most natural to them.
Tips for Effective Intergenerational Communication
Supervising a multigenerational workforce takes care and strategy. Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Z all bring different strengths and styles. Bridging those differences requires intentional communication practices.
Here are five tips to help you create a thriving, intergenerational workplace:
1. Use Multiple Communication Channels
One size doesn’t fit all. Use a blend of communication methods to ensure your message lands. Instant messaging may resonate with Gen Z, but some employees may prefer verbal instructions or printed materials.
Example: Announce a policy change by explaining it in person during a team meeting, following up with a visual post in your communication app, and offering a downloadable one-pager for reference.
2. Be Clear and Concise
Clarity cuts through generational noise. Avoid jargon, overly formal language, or lengthy digressions. Say what you mean in simple, vivid language.
Example: Instead of saying, “Due to internal adjustments to our operational policy, all personnel are henceforth required to adhere to revised procedural guidelines,” say: “We’ve updated how we handle shipments. Here’s what’s changing and when.”
3. Encourage Cross-Generational Mentoring
Pair employees from different age groups to share skills and perspectives. Younger workers can help older peers navigate tech. Senior employees can pass along institutional wisdom.
Example: A Millennial supervisor teaches a Gen Z team member time management hacks. In return, the Gen Z worker shows them how to use social features in the company’s LMS.
This mutual exchange fosters respect, breaks down stereotypes, and builds stronger teams.
4. Practice Inclusive Communication
Use language and behaviors that create psychological safety. Respect guidance provided by employees about how they would like to be addressed. Avoid assumptions. Make space for quiet voices as well as loud ones.
Example: During team meetings, ensure everyone has a chance to speak. Actively invite feedback from newer or younger team members.
Inclusivity isn’t just about being nice. It creates workplaces where people feel free to contribute, collaborate, and grow.
5. Train Your Team on Communication Skills
Don’t expect people to just “get along.” Offer resources that teach your team how to communicate across generations, roles, and backgrounds.
Tools like Axonify provide microlearning modules on communication styles, conflict resolution, and empathy, so everyone’s equipped to work together better.
Example: Roll out a training series on giving and receiving feedback across age groups. Reinforce lessons in weekly huddles and celebrate small wins.
Embrace and Grow With Gen Z
Gen Z is not difficult. They’re different. They bring curiosity, creativity, and confidence to the workplace, but only when communication flows freely.
Frontline supervisors who listen, adapt, and lead with empathy will find that Gen Z is not just ready to work; they’re ready to lead.
By blending modern tools with timeless leadership practices, you can build a workplace where every generation thrives, contributes, and connects.
Let communication be your secret sauce for building a strong, united team.
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