What Gen Z Wants Most from Their Leaders (And Why It Matters)
Author: NFG Consulting LLC / Steve Shockley
April 14, 2025
As Gen Z rapidly enters the workforce, a clear shift in leadership expectations is unfolding. Today’s youngest professionals aren’t just looking for a paycheck—they want clarity, connection, and purpose. If you’re managing a team that includes Gen Z employees, understanding what drives them isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Transparency and Open Communication
Gen Z values direct, two-way communication more than any generation before them. According to a report from Insperity, they want leaders who are transparent—not just about performance, but about the bigger picture. What’s the strategy? What’s the end goal? What’s not working? Silence, avoidance, or one-way updates create distance and distrust.
Leadership Takeaway: Make regular, honest communication part of your culture. Replace status reports with conversations. Share context, not just tasks.
Purpose and Impact
According to Deloitte Consulting, Gen Z wants their work to mean something—to contribute to broader societal good or positive change. They’re more likely to stay engaged when they feel their role has purpose beyond the bottom line.
Leadership Takeaway: Connect daily work to a bigger vision. Share stories of impact. Let them see that their time and energy matter.
