Why Gen Z is quietly rejecting leadership roles? Experts suggest how companies can win them back
Deloitte
repor cited by Inc., a mere 6 percent of Gen Z professionals aspire to climb to executive roles. For them, leadership often means burnout, bureaucracy and a loss of authenticity. But what if we saw it instead as a path to real impact?
Dr. Robert Coleman, Research Director at
Dale Carnegie
, believes the key is reframing leadership in terms that resonate. 'Gen Z is motivated by purpose, transparency and personal growth,' he explains. Organizations that link leadership to these core values—rather than to hierarchy—can shift perceptions and ignite enthusiasm.
Make Them Architects of AI Strategy
Digital fluency is Gen Z's native language. Dale Carnegie's research shows 20 percent of Gen Z workers feel workplace technology boosts efficiency—double the rate of Gen X. Coleman urges companies to involve Gen Z in AI rollouts: 'When Gen Z feels like they're part of something transformative, they're more likely to stay engaged and see leadership as a natural next step.'
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Elevate Soft Skills for Authentic Influence
Tech mastery alone doesn't prepare one for leadership. Coleman notes that while soft skills are in demand, they're often underdeveloped. 'Gen Z wants to feel heard and understood,' he says. Soft skills training built around empathy and connection can empower young professionals to lead in line with their values—showing that influence doesn't require sacrificing authenticity.
Watching leaders who work with transparency, balance and empathy gives Gen Z permission to step up. 'Leadership doesn't have to mean a corner office or 60‑hour workweeks,' emphasizes Coleman. By highlighting inclusive, value-driven models, companies encourage young employees to envision themselves not as reluctant foot soldiers—but as empowered change-makers.
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Leadership That Lasts
The benefits of this shift are twofold: Gen Z gains meaningful growth, and organizations cultivate leadership styles designed for the modern workplace. As Coleman asserts, 'The goal isn't to force Gen Z into old molds. It's to co‑create new models of leadership that reflect the world they want to build.' The result? A workforce where purpose and performance grow in harmony—and trust becomes the cornerstone of collaboration.
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