A heartfelt note from the famed Gen Z to their millennial managers.

Dear Millennial Managers,

We, your Gen Z employees, are grateful for paving the way for us in the corporate world. You were the first generation to fully embrace fast-changing technology, work-life balance, and the importance of meaningful work. However, generational differences have led to different communication styles, work expectations, technological abilities, and leadership styles. 

But are we going to let these differences make working together difficult? Gen Z believes in having open communication and we are sure you will be open to our suggestions. So here is an open letter asking for your support to bridge the gap between our generations. Let's create a harmonious and productive work environment we both can enjoy! Here's what you can do: 

1. Lead us by example: We appreciate being led through vision and feedback. We cannot follow a leader who cannot communicate their vision clearly. We respect managers who lead by example. 
2. Be inclusive of our unique needs: We are a fast-paced, digital generation that thrives in innovative and collaborative environments. We need a space where opinions and ideas are shared openly. We need you to recognize our needs and build a supportive environment for us to work.
3. Communicate openly with us: As Gen Z, we value honest and open conversation. We love it when you acknowledge our strengths, candidly express disagreement, give constructive criticism and challenge our perspectives. 
4. Understand our need for growth and change: Gen-Z believes in continually challenging the status quo and commanding a place of respect in the workplace. Leverage our drive for change and harness it to benefit the organization. 
5. We lack your experience, so please be patient: We are just beginning our careers and do not have as much professional experience as you do. It impacts our ability to navigate complex workplace dynamics and make sound decisions. However, we are observant and learn quickly. We promise to improve over time!
6. Don't shy away from technology: As Gen Z, we were born with it! We have an innate ease with which we interact with information and connectivity. Don't hesitate to ask for help when it comes to technology.
7. Value our innovative and entrepreneurial perspectives: Our generation is highly entrepreneurial and driven to create and innovate. We take risks, think creatively, and identify new opportunities for growth and development. At times, it may seem like we are punching above our weight, but once you give us a chance, we can prove our competency.
8. Be woke: We take pride in being the most diverse generation yet. You should know that we place a high value on inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. We love working in organizations where managers create an inclusive environment for all genders, ethnicities, and disabilities.
9. Think beyond our generation, think about us as individuals: It is easy to stereotype us as Gen-Z but try to look at us as individuals. Help us nurture our unique skills, abilities, and values. For Gen Z, individuality matters (a lot)! 
10. Invest in our leadership potential: We will lead future generations in the upcoming years. Invest in training and mentoring us to face the next generation of bold and competitive employees. 

We would like to thank you for your guidance and support so far. Let's be open-minded and willing to learn from each other. With better communication, meaningful feedback, trust, and collaboration, we can create a positive and productive work environment.

Sincerely,

Gen Z Employees