Business leaders have mixed opinions about leadership quality in their industries, and the most critical views come from Generation Z.
A survey by Wake Forest University and Blueprint Polling found that 44% of business leaders were satisfied with leadership quality in their industry, while 36% were dissatisfied, and 20% had no strong opinion.
However, dissatisfaction was highest among Gen Z and younger millennial leaders (ages 28 to 34), with 53% expressing disappointment.
“Younger generations view leaders as facilitators, resource providers, and mentors rather than figures of authority,” said Pat Sweeney, executive director of the Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character at Wake Forest University’s School of Business. “Gen Z leaders expect ethical behavior, transparency, and a sense of purpose—qualities they feel are missing in today’s workplaces. Companies that ignore these expectations risk losing talented young employees.”
The Wake Forest report suggests that Gen Z and younger millennial leaders want to be included in decision-making, kept informed, and given a clear career path along with flexible work options.
Survey results also showed that these younger leaders believe respect is a key area where workplace ethics could improve, suggesting they do not feel they are treated with the level of respect they deserve.
Gen Z Faces Criticism at Work
Complaints about Gen Z workers have become common in workplaces and online discussions.
Financial advisor Dave Ramsey described them as “just awful,” and some hiring managers admit to avoiding them. Critics accuse Gen Z of being late, entitled, and a poor fit for many businesses.
A survey from the Freedom Economy Index, conducted by PublicSquare and RedBalloon, found that 68% of small-business owners consider Gen Z the “least reliable” employees. Another report from Mailsuite found that Gen Z workers receive the most passive-aggressive emails from both managers and clients.
Overall, 54% of non-Gen Z workers think Gen Z is lazy, while 40% describe them as selfish, according to a career website Monster survey of thousands of employees. About 30% of older workers said they would rather have a root canal than work with Gen Z colleagues, and 27% would rather work with an ex.
These negative perceptions create real challenges for Gen Z employees, who entered the workforce during the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic. A survey by Intelligent.com found that 80% of Gen Z employees believe stereotypes have negatively affected their work experience, with many feeling labeled as lazy, unprofessional, or entitled. Nearly half (49%) said these stereotypes have cost them raises or promotions.
“When employees are unfairly labeled as ‘lazy’ or ‘entitled,’ it can be very discouraging and hurt their career growth,” said Huy Nguyen, Intelligent.com’s chief education and career development advisor, in a press release. “Gen Z grew up in a digital-first world that shaped their work style, prioritizing flexibility and mental well-being. While these values may clash with traditional workplace norms, they shouldn’t undermine their skills or dedication.”
Gen Z Sees Themselves Differently
Gen Z workers have a much more positive view of their performance.
According to the Monster survey, 59% of Gen Z respondents said they demonstrate professionalism at work, but only 8% of older workers agreed. Similarly, while 71% of Gen Z workers believe they are good at problem-solving, only 13% of older workers share that view.
Sixty-four percent of Gen Z workers say they have a strong work ethic, but just 10% of older workers agree.
A survey by Udemy found mixed opinions on Gen Z in the workplace. Millennial and Gen X employees see Gen Z as tech-savvy but also lazy. They also describe Gen Z as independent and open-minded, but at the same time, entitled.
While Gen Z’s workplace expectations—such as flexibility and work-life balance—are similar to those of previous generations, they place a higher value on clear communication, transparency about job expectations, professional development support, and a positive, inclusive team culture, according to the Udemy report.
