Why does Generation Z expect leaders to take on the role of a “Mentor” or “Coach” rather than simply giving orders without guidance?
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Gen Z desires autonomy in decision-making.
- They want to have “choices” in their own work.
- They do not want to be controlled or dictated by authoritarian leaders.
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Gen Z expects ongoing support and guidance.
- They want leaders who “provide direction” rather than those who “tell them what to do.”
- Developing “intrapreneurship” or entrepreneurial thinking within organizations requires a coaching approach to help Gen Z employees grow.
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Gen Z seeks leaders who facilitate development, not just evaluate performance.
- They prefer real-time feedback over waiting for annual performance reviews.
- Coaching leadership allows them to receive consistent feedback.
These suggestions come from an article published in the journal Industrial and Commercial Training, where the authors propose that among the leadership styles used in organizations, the coaching leadership style aligns with the characteristics and motivations of Gen Z employees. This style provides employees with the freedom to make decisions and determine their career progression, while also allowing leaders to offer guidance and support when challenges arise during work.
Read the full article at Emerald.
Reference: Pandita, D., Agarwal, Y., & Vapiwala, F. (2023). “Fostering the sustainability of organizational learning: reviewing the role of Gen-Z employees,” Industrial and Commercial Training, 55(3), 375-387. https://doi.org/10.1108/ICT-09-2022-0064
Summary compiled by
Associate Professor Dr. Saran Pimthong
