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applications are widely used in offices, has driven linguistic change and sped up the
especially as companies offer their employees spread of language trends.”
the ability to work remote. Apps like Slack, There’s no question that Gen Z has already
Microsoft Teams, and Google Chat offer users begun making an impact on the workplace,
more options to express their feelings and from making bigger demands for salary
share their individuality with emojis and GIFs.
transparency to dressing more casually in
Gen Z is nearly twice as likely to use these the office. Most recently, a poll revealed that
instant messaging platforms at work, young adults may take two weeks to feel
compared to 54 per cent of workers aged 55 confident in a new job.
and over, who prefer to use email because it’s The survey of 1,000 18 to 25 year olds also
considered more professional. However, 40 found that Gen Z workers spend eight days
per cent of Gen Z-ers believe that email limits worrying about their new role before they even
their ability to demonstrate their personalities.
start, expressing concerns about not fitting
“Our research shows that the next generation in with the team or not knowing what to do
are clearly going to make their mark on in their position. Many young workers turn to
the workforce when it comes to how we social media for advice when starting a new
communicate,” said Kirstie Mackey, head of job or apprenticeship, with TikTok proving the
the Barclays LifeSkills initiative. “The shift most useful.
to more personable language is a positive However, recent graduates entering the
one, however it’s important to demonstrate workforce had their college experiences
an understanding of social etiquette in the interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, leading
workplace, which does differ from school or to virtual classes and online internships. As
university.
a result, many Gen Z-ers are now taking
“Striking the right balance whilst still displaying courses in order to brush up on their work
your personality through your communications skills.
is key,” she added.
According to a report from the Wall Street
Dr Laura Bailey, senior lecturer in English Journal, companies, universities, and
language and linguistics at the University of recruiters have begun training new hires
Kent, said: “Changing norms in the workplace on developing their soft skills - common
are reflected in the language younger interpersonal skills or traits that allow workers
employees use, and the way communication to interact harmoniously with others in the
has changed in general. Email threads and workplace. At these training facilities, Gen
instant messaging platforms have become Z workers will receive training on how to
blended into ‘conversations’ where formal maintain eye contact and take pauses during
openings and sign offs might feel out of place. conversations. Other major companies are
also informing young workers on appropriate
“For the older generation, letter-writing office culture, such as workplace dress codes.
etiquette might be drilled in enough that it is
instinctive in any written communication,” she www.independent.co.uk
continued. “Whereas for Gen Z, social media
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