Digiday WorkLife explores the growing need for HR leaders to prioritize the development of Gen Z employees, particularly in bridging the "soft skills gap" that has emerged as a result of their unique upbringing during the pandemic. Jennifer Moss, a workplace strategist and author, highlights that Gen Z’s early career experiences were shaped by the disruption caused by COVID-19, which created challenges in developing essential interpersonal and relational skills. Jennifer points out that, unlike previous generations, Gen Z must also learn how to engage effectively with technology, such as AI and robots, alongside humans.

Despite concerns about their lack of soft skills, Jennifer notes that Gen Z exhibits strong emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change. They rank high in empathy, vulnerability, and altruism, traits that are beneficial in a workplace setting. However, many Gen Z employees struggle with in-person communication, with a significant portion reporting discomfort in workplace interactions. This social unease could affect their career progression and the overall team dynamic, highlighting the importance of fostering communication skills alongside technical expertise.

Jennifer and other experts argue that instead of focusing solely on Gen Z’s perceived deficits, HR leaders should nurture their existing strengths and provide targeted development opportunities. Encouraging cross-generational collaboration, where the complementary skills of different age groups are blended, is seen as a promising solution for fostering a more dynamic and effective workforce. Ultimately, creating environments that support continuous learning and personal growth will help Gen Z thrive in the evolving workplace.

Read the complete article at WorkLife - Jennifer Moss.