In today’s modern workplace, Generation Z often faces stigma and challenges that aren’t always easy to navigate. Often labeled as too idealistic, inexperienced, or overly sensitive, these stereotypes can overshadow the real potential Gen Z brings into the professional world. However, behind those labels lies great promise, especially when paired with the right communication approach.
Recognizing the importance of this, Borwita hosted an inspiring webinar as part of its Public Training Communication Series, titled: “Dear Gen Z: Here’s How You Win Respect Across Generations.” The session featured Dr. (cand) Tri Novia, S.Kep., Ners., MM., M.I.Kom., a trainer and mentor in public speaking and pitching innovation.
Gen Z has grown up in a fast-paced, ever-evolving digital age. But once they enter the workplace, they often encounter systems and expectations shaped by older generations like Gen X and Baby Boomers, who bring contrasting mindsets and work values.
This webinar explored in depth:
How Gen X, Millennials, and Boomers Perceive Gen Z
Each generation contributes different values and perspectives to the workplace. The webinar examined how the earlier generations Gen X, Millennials, and Boomers often view Gen Z:
- Gen X tends to see Gen Z as “too fast, too soon”: eager to rise quickly, but lacking a sense of loyalty or appreciation for process.
- Millennials, though closer in age, may view Gen Z as less resilient or too blunt when voicing opinions, especially toward senior colleagues.
- Boomers, with a more traditional work style, may feel that Gen Z lacks respect for hierarchy, relies too heavily on technology, or lacks patience in building a career.
That said, the older generations also recognize Gen Z’s strengths such as quick learning, digital fluency, and fresh critical thinking as long as they are communicated appropriately.
Work Attitudes That Help Gen Z Earn Trust and Respect
The discussion highlighted key traits Gen Z can demonstrate to gain credibility:
- Commitment and consistency: Great ideas are only valuable if they’re followed through. Seeing tasks through to completion builds trust.
- Cross-generational empathy: Understand that different generations have different priorities and communication styles. Adapting doesn’t mean losing yourself.
- Diligence and eagerness to learn: Being teachable is just as important as being quick. Openness to feedback is highly valued.
- Personal responsibility: Owning up to mistakes and being accountable without deflecting blame shows maturity respected across generations.
Building a Professional Reputation Without Losing Your Authenticity
One of the biggest challenges Gen Z faces is how to stay authentic while still appearing professional. The webinar offered practical tips:
- Know your personal brand: Understand your values, strengths, and uniqueness and show them consistently through communication and work behavior.
- Leverage technology as a strength: Use your digital fluency to empower the team not to come off as “a know-it-all.”
- Speak up with elegance: It’s not about silencing your voice it’s about delivering your ideas in a way that uplifts rather than attacks.
- Avoid rushing validation build long-term value: A good reputation isn’t made from one great presentation, but from many consistent, thoughtful actions.
With a relevant and communicative approach, the webinar equipped participants with tools to adapt to a multigenerational workplace while staying true to themselves.As a leading FMCG distributor in Indonesia, Borwita believes that the best investment is in talent development. Through initiatives like this, the company is committed to supporting the younger generation to face the professional world with confidence and strong communication skills.
