Gen Z Talk vs. Corporate Speak: Why You Should Create a Common Language at Work

Workplace communication is a vital element of any successful business, yet it has never been more challenging.

With four generations now working side by side, small to medium-sized business (SMB) owners and managers often find themselves navigating uncharted waters.

At the heart of many workplace conflicts lies a linguistic gap—a difference in how generations, particularly Gen Z and older colleagues, communicate, and honestly, GenZ despises the way the older generations communicate (a feeling that is absolutely mutual, by the way!).

For SMBs, where interpersonal connections and team dynamics are critical, understanding these differences is more than merely ‘helpful,’ it’s essential.  A matter of corporate life or death.

Here’s a closer look at the linguistic divide, why it matters, and how managers can create a harmonious work environment for all.

The Linguistic Divide: Why Gen Z Colleagues Are Annoyed—and Annoying

Language evolves with every generation, shaped by cultural trends, technology, and shared experiences. For Gen Z, the first generation to grow up with smartphones in hand, communication is fast, concise, and often heavily influenced by digital culture. This creates friction with older generations accustomed to more formal and detailed modes of communication.

Key Sources of Frustration:

  1. Abbreviations and Emojis: Gen Z often relies on shorthand (think “lol,” “brb,” or “lmk”) and emojis to convey emotions or intent. While these may feel natural to them, older colleagues may interpret this as unprofessional or unclear.
  2. Directness vs. Politeness: Gen Z’s communication is often direct, sometimes bordering on blunt. They value efficiency and see formalities as unnecessary. Older generations, however, may interpret this as rude or dismissive.
    On the flip side, they see “Corporate Speak” as being frustratingly obtuse and disingenuous.  Privately, they describe it as “Corporate Cosplay.”
  3. Digital-First Communication: Gen Z prefers written communication, often through text, email, or chat apps, over phone calls or in-person meetings. This can be perceived as impersonal or detached by colleagues who value face-to-face interactions.
  4. New Slang and Jargon: Terms like “rizz” (charisma), “lowkey” (subtly), or “slaps” (great) may be second nature to Gen Z but leave others scratching their heads.

    Misunderstandings can lead to frustration on both sides, and worse, if someone from an older generation attempts to communicate with them using their slang, it’s often seen as heavy handed and inauthentic.

The Management Perspective: Where Tough Love Has Merit

Let’s face it: Business doesn’t stop for linguistic differences.  It barely even slows down.

SMB owners and managers have every right to expect their employees to communicate clearly and professionally, regardless of age. Gen Z, as newcomers to the workforce, must adapt to the standards and expectations of their workplace.

After all, professionalism—including clear, respectful communication—is a cornerstone of business success. If Gen Z employees want to advance their careers, learning to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients of all ages is non-negotiable.

Here’s the thing though:  The workplace is changing, and Gen Z is a rapidly growing segment of the workforce. Meeting them halfway isn’t just a gesture of goodwill—it’s a strategic move that can improve engagement, retention, and productivity.

Meeting in the Middle: Strategies for Bridging the Gap

Creating a harmonious, multi-generational workplace requires effort from both sides. Here are practical strategies for SMB owners and managers:

  1. Foster Mutual Understanding
    • Host Generational Workshops: Create spaces where employees can share their communication preferences and frustrations. Encourage people to speak freely and mean it. 

      These workshops can foster empathy and understanding across age groups.
    • Encourage Mentorship Programs: Pair Gen Z employees with older mentors to facilitate mutual learning. While younger employees can learn about traditional workplace norms, mentors can gain insight into digital communication styles.
  2. Set Clear Communication Guidelines
    • Establish workplace norms for communication, such as when to use email versus instant messaging or how to structure professional correspondence.
    • Provide examples of effective communication that balance clarity, professionalism, and efficiency.
  3. Leverage Technology Wisely
    • Introduce collaboration tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams, which align with Gen Z’s digital-first preferences but also provide channels for structured communication.
    • Offer training sessions to help all employees become proficient in these tools.
  4. Encourage Feedback Loops
    • Create regular opportunities for employees to give and receive feedback on workplace communication. This ensures that issues are addressed before they escalate.
    • Use feedback to identify recurring challenges and adjust policies or training accordingly.
  5. Promote Inclusivity in Language
    • Provide a glossary of common terms or phrases used by Gen Z to bridge understanding gaps.
    • Encourage employees to clarify unfamiliar terms or phrases in a nonjudgmental way.
  6. Embrace Flexibility
    • Allow employees to use their preferred communication styles when appropriate. For example, internal messages can be more casual, while client-facing communication should adhere to formal standards.
    • Recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to communication.

Final Thoughts

For SMB owners and managers, linguistic differences between generations represent both a challenge and an opportunity.

By recognizing and addressing these differences, and equally important, by rewarding employees who get it right, businesses can foster an environment where employees of all ages feel valued and understood.

The key is balance: While Gen Z must learn to navigate traditional workplace expectations, older generations should also be open to evolving communication norms. Meeting in the middle not only bridges gaps but also paves the way for a more collaborative and innovative workplace.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a culture where everyone—regardless of generation—can thrive.

With thoughtful strategies and open-minded leadership, it’s possible to turn generational differences into a source of strength, ensuring your business remains adaptable and successful in a rapidly changing world.