Gen Z and the Power of Humble, Human-Centered Leadership
Author: NFG Consulting LLC/Steve Shockley
Date: 4/14/2025
As companies evolve, so must their leadership models. Gen Z isn’t responding to the old-school “command-and-control” approach. They’re seeking leaders who bring authenticity, humility, and a willingness to learn from their teams—not just manage them.
Humility and Learnability
According to a recent LinkedIn post, younger professionals often view older supervisors as rigid or resistant to feedback. Gen Z wants leaders who don’t pretend to have all the answers—leaders who model curiosity and admit when they’re still learning.
Leadership Takeaway: Replace ego with empathy. Say “I don’t know” when you need to. Involve your team in problem-solving.
Empathy and Psychological Safety
Younger workers also want to feel seen and heard. Empathy is no longer a soft skill—it’s a leadership essential. When team members feel psychologically safe, they’re more likely to speak up, innovate, and stay loyal.
Leadership Takeaway: Practice active listening. Acknowledge challenges. Celebrate progress—even the small wins.
