Gen Z Are Lazy? The Leadership Mistake Behind a Persistent Myth
Like me, you’ve probably heard this said in meetings, panels and boardrooms:
“Gen Z just don’t have the same work ethic anymore!”
But is it true?
What the Research Shows
Across Europe and the UK, studies show no measurable decline in work ethic between generations.
Gen Z’s motivation, reliability and effort match older cohorts at the same age.
Sources:
Zabel et al. (2017) – Generational Differences in Work Ethic: Fact or Fiction? Journal of Business and Psychology
Schröder (2024) – Work Motivation Is Not Generational but Depends on Age and Period Journal of Business and Psychology, 39(4), 897–908
Costanza & Finkelstein (2020) – Generations and Generational Differences: Debunking Myths in Organisational Science and Practice
Why the Perception Exists
Because Gen Z:
- Prioritise wellbeing and balance
- Expect purpose and fairness
- Reject presenteeism and focus on outcomes
- Value flexibility and boundaries
To some leaders, this looks like a lack of drive.
In reality, it’s a different expression of commitment.
The Leadership Problem
This isn’t a people problem.
It’s a leadership problem — a misunderstanding of what motivation looks like now.
Gen Z haven’t lost the will to work.
They’ve lost patience with workplaces that ignore meaning, respect and reciprocity.
The Solution
Strong leaders adapt.
They:
- Redefine “hard work” in outcome terms, not office hours
- Build trust and autonomy instead of control
- Create purpose-led roles that connect to real impact
- Model wellbeing, not burnout.
Gen Z’s expectations aren’t a threat;
they’re a blueprint for healthier, more sustainable workplaces.
The Shift
People Problem: “Gen Z are lazy.”
Leadership Shift: “Our culture hasn’t evolved yet.”
Leaders who can adjust will unlock a highly capable, values-driven generation.
Nick Robinson
Executive Coach & author of the best-selling The 9 Types of Difficult People
www.nickrobinson.org
Helping leaders and teams turn challenging dynamics into great working relationships.
