NAIROBI, Kenya Dec 29 – While email remains a staple of workplace communication, the preferences of Gen Z employees are challenging its status quo. As this generation enters the workforce, their distinct tech habits are influencing how colleagues interact.
Gen Z, often referred to as Zoomers, is setting itself apart from previous generations in terms of workplace behaviour. They are fostering a more informal office culture, emphasizing self-care and happiness over the relentless pursuit of success. Additionally, they are reshaping the conventional concept of a “career ladder,” with many showing a preference for financial growth within their current roles rather than aiming for managerial positions in haste.
One noticeable shift in office culture is Gen Z’s attitude toward email. A 2020 survey conducted by consulting firm Creative Strategies revealed that while those aged 30 and above considered email their primary communication tool, it ranked fourth for those under 30. Among the younger age group, tools like Google Docs and Zoom held greater sway.
A more recent survey of 8,000 workers by Slack and OnePoll in August reiterated the challenges email faces in the workplace. Respondents expressed frustrations with unanswered emails, misaddressed messages, and repetitive inquiries, all contributing to their aversion to email as a work tool.
Business leaders have taken notice of Gen Z’s email aversion. Thierry Delaporte, CEO of IT firm Wipros, noted that some of his employees rarely check their emails, preferring platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram for communication. Others, like Farhad Divecha, owner of the digital marketing agency Accuracast in London, have moved away from email in favor of tools like Microsoft Teams and WhatsApp for quicker and more efficient communication.
The popularity of platforms like Teams and Slack surged during the pandemic as remote work necessitated more immediate communication channels. Some companies have even adopted platforms such as Discord, widely used in the gaming community, as an alternative to Slack.
Gen Z’s attitude toward email also extends to their interactions with colleagues. They often use informal email sign-offs and adopt more casual attire in the workplace.
However, many managers find it challenging to adapt to these preferences. A ResumeBuilder.com survey revealed that nearly three-quarters of managers and business leaders consider Gen Z the most challenging generation to work with. This reputation may stem from Gen Z’s tendency to question established workplace norms, such as the necessity of a five-day workweek and daily commuting.
In essence, Gen Z appears to be spearheading a workplace revolution by challenging traditional practices and fostering a more flexible, informal, and efficient work culture, which may eventually lead to a diminished role for email in the professional sphere.
