In this episode of What the F is Happening to the Office?, Bob Fox sits down with generational researcher and leadership expert Warren Wright to explore how Gen Z is changing the workplace from the inside out.
What happens when Gen Z starts reshaping the rules of work—while the Boomers are still playing by the old ones? With different expectations, communication styles, and a deep desire for purpose, connection, and transparency, they’re challenging traditional norms—and raising new questions about how we work, lead, and collaborate across generations.
Warren brings decades of insight from his work at Gallup and now as CEO of Second Wave, helping organizations understand the generational forces shaping culture, leadership, and performance. Together, they unpack what’s driving Gen Z, how it compares to Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials, and what organizations need to do now to prepare for the future of work.
Main Takeaways
- Gen Z is reshaping workplace dynamics with different values.
- Understanding generational differences is crucial for effective leadership.
- Technology and AI are significantly impacting entry-level jobs.
- Younger generations prioritize emotional safety and inclusivity.
- Career success for Gen Z is defined by purpose, not just money.
- Organizations must adapt to the changing expectations of younger workers.
- Collaboration and flexibility are key in modern workspaces.
- Diversity and equity are essential for attracting Gen Z talent.
- Training and development are critical for retaining younger employees.
- Generational collaboration can enhance workplace innovation.
Meet Warren Wright
Warren is one of the nation’s leading experts on researching generations, working with leaders to uncover their influence and insights on business strategy and outcomes. He advises leaders on ways to humanize the workplace, putting autonomy and ownership in the hands of the individual worker while improving engagement and results in the process. Warren has over 2 decades of experience in consumer research and demography, leadership development, and workshop facilitation.
Key Moments
05:52 What’s Shaping Work Today
08:00 The New Paradigm for Work
10:55 4 Generations and Their Expectations
12:48 How Generations See Leadership
16:17 The Lived Experience of Each Generation
19:13 Gen Z’s Priorities and Fears
20:57 Why Gen Z Wants In-Person Work
22:15 Social Media’s Impact on Gen Z
26:30 Rethinking Career Success
28:09 Managing Across Generations
30:19 Gen Z’s Relationship with Technology
33:03 Gen Z’s Superpowers
35:30 Building Multi-Generational Teams
39:24 Creating Safe Work Environments
39:43 Bridging the Communication Gap
43:15 AI’s Impact on Entry-Level Work
46:15 The “Chief Z Officer” Idea
46:56 Designing Workplaces for Gen Z
50:43 DEI, Belonging, and the Long View
52:00 Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up
