Perfume Keep It Podcast: The Changing Workplace Attitudes of Millennials and Gen Z

As I reflect on the workplace dynamics of my generation, I'm struck by the stark contrast between then and now. In the early 2000s, when I was graduating, finding a job was a daunting task. The corporate world was characterized by strict hierarchy, long hours, and fierce competition for well-paid work with good prospects. It was a time when employers held all the power, and employees were expected to be grateful just to have a job.

Fast-forward to today, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, have grown up in an era of increased flexibility, digital communication, and changing attitudes towards work-life balance. My friends who are now managers have expressed frustration with junior staff who prioritize personal plans over critical client work, or worse, fail to respond to job offers.

For me, the contrast is particularly striking. In my part-time job at a famous department store, not wearing full makeup was seen as grounds for dismissal. I recall one unpaid magazine internship where I had to collect discarded pots from the office bins and fill them with compost – an experience that taught me the importance of humility.

However, for Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, the story is different. They've grown up in a world where technology has democratized communication, and social media has given them a platform to express themselves. This younger generation seems less concerned with climbing the corporate ladder and more focused on pursuing their passions.

In many ways, millennials are jealous of the flexibility and autonomy that Gen Z enjoys. We're reminded that when we were young, working from home or enjoying shorter summer hours was a distant dream. The power dynamic has shifted, and employers are now expected to accommodate employees' needs rather than vice versa.

As I look back on my own career, I realize that the initial cohort of millennials might justifiably feel old before their time when they gaze upon their junior colleagues. We were conditioned to be grateful for any job, while Gen Z is more likely to expect flexibility and work-life balance as a given.

For those willing to listen, the story goes like this: it's no longer acceptable to start sentences with 'in my day' while still in your thirties. The times have changed, and so must our attitudes towards work and life. As we navigate this new landscape, it's essential for millennials and Gen Z alike to recognize that both generations bring unique perspectives and strengths to the table.

Ultimately, the perfume keep it podcast is about embracing these changes and finding ways to thrive in a rapidly evolving workplace. By listening to each other's stories and learning from our differences, we can create a more harmonious and productive work environment for all.

Perfume keep it podcast