Generation Z brings a unique set of strengths to the workforce. They're tech-savvy, creative, and resourceful, but there’s a growing concern among employers: the lack of soft skills in Gen Z. These are the abilities that make you an effective communicator, team player, and problem-solver—the kind of skills that turn knowledge into action and build relationships that help careers flourish.
Growing up in a world dominated by screens and digital communication has left many young professionals struggling to develop interpersonal skills and navigate workplace dynamics. We talked to professionals on both sides—Gen Z workers and seasoned employers—to understand why this Gen Z soft skills gap exists, what skills young professionals need to succeed, and how they can bridge the divide.
The Gen Z soft skills gap: What's really going on?
It’s not just anecdotal—research backs this up. According to a 2024 Harris Poll conducted for Fortune, 82% of managers reported that their new hires from Generation Z need additional support, time, and training to develop their soft skills. The root of the issue isn’t laziness or lack of effort. In fact, a 2024 report by H&R Block found that 55% of Gen Z workers plan to learn a new skill or trade within the next year. The problem lies in how they were prepared (or not prepared) for professional life.
Gen Z employees have grown up in a digital-first world, navigating rapid technological changes and adapting to new ways of learning and working. Plus, many Gen Z workers entered the job market during or just after the pandemic, which limited their opportunities for internships and in-person mentorship. Without these real-world experiences, it’s no wonder they feel unprepared when it comes to soft skills like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving that older generations take for granted.
“Our younger hires are amazing with tech—they’ve revolutionized our digital processes—but face-to-face communication? It’s a different story,” says business owner Danielle Yates, whose customers include cancer patients. “Some struggle to maintain eye contact or show empathy during client interactions, which is critical when working with people going through something as sensitive as chemotherapy.”
Gen Z recognizes the root cause of their skills—and lack thereof. “We’ve had smartphones in our hands since middle school; technology is second nature to us,” says Brooke Webber, a Gen Z marketer. “But that same tech also meant less face-to-face interaction growing up, which is where soft skills are really developed.”
Webber says universities shoulder part of the blame. “Universities put all their energy into technical training, but they forget about the basics,” she says. “Soft skills training should be a mandatory part of completing a program. I took a communications class in community college, and it gave me such an edge.”
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Soft skills in Gen Z: What's missing and why it matters
As the workforce evolves, it's increasingly clear that different generations bring unique strengths and challenges to the table. While data may not pinpoint the exact skills that Generation Z is lacking, we know the soft skills that are universally vital for success.
So, what skills are Gen Z lacking? Below, we outline a few of those critical soft skills that can make a significant difference in career readiness, based on a soft skills study.
1. Communication skills
Gen Z often freezes in real-time conversations. Years of texting and social media have shaped their communication style, but these platforms don’t prepare them for high-pressure meetings or resolving conflicts with colleagues.
Younger employees may find face-to-face or even phone interactions awkward. These Gen Z communication problems can impact team dynamics and client relationships. “In our business, we work with clients going through emotionally charged situations like cancer treatment,” Yates says. “Soft skills like empathy and active listening are just as important as technical expertise.”
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2. Problem-solving and critical thinking
Analytical thinking is a Generation Z soft skill strength. Growing up with Google at their fingertips, Gen Z is great at finding answers—but that doesn’t always translate to solving complex workplace problems. “Problem-solving isn’t about having all the answers right away—it’s about being resourceful and open to learning,” Webber says. Employers often cite a need for stronger critical thinking skills and more comfort with ambiguity.
Read this next: What Critical Thinking Is—And 7 Ways to Improve Yours
3. Teamwork
Collaboration is another area where Gen Z struggles. This generation grew up in a digital-first world, where independent work—like completing school projects solo or building a personal brand online—was often the norm. But in the workforce, effective teamwork means navigating different personalities, communication styles, and sometimes, conflicting ideas.
Gen Z professionals may need to step out of their comfort zone to actively engage in brainstorming sessions, ask for input from peers, and seek constructive feedback. Employers can support this growth by encouraging team-building exercises and providing clear guidelines on collaboration expectations.
4. Leadership
Yes, leadership is a necessary skill even for entry-level positions. Showing initiative, motivating teammates, and making informed decisions are all leadership qualities that can set Gen Z workers apart early in their careers.
Despite their entrepreneurial spirit, some Gen Z professionals hesitate to take charge in group settings. Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about guiding a team toward shared goals with empathy and accountability. Developing this skill means speaking up, taking responsibility for outcomes, and seeking mentorship from experienced leaders.
How to improve your soft skills—as a Gen Z
The good news is that soft skills can be learned, just like technical ones. Brooke emphasizes that growth often comes from discomfort. “Don’t expect it to feel easy; if something scares you—like speaking up in a meeting—that’s a sign you’re on the right track,” she says. “The more you push yourself, the more natural these skills will become.”
Here are some actionable steps:
- Seek out real-world practice. Yates’ company uses role-playing exercises to help employees practice handling difficult client interactions. “It’s safer to make mistakes during training than with real clients,” she says. “Our team found this approach effective—and even fun.”
- Embrace feedback. Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth. Whether it’s from a mentor, manager, or colleague, learning to accept and apply feedback is crucial. (Here’s how to take feedback like a pro.)
- Join collaborative projects. Volunteering for cross-functional projects or joining professional groups can help Gen Z workers build teamwork and networking skills.
- Take advantage of online learning. Don't limit your learning to the technical side. Look for resources that cover soft skills development.
What can universities and employers do to empower soft skills in Gen Z?
Closing the Gen Z soft skills gap isn’t just an individual responsibility. Universities and employers also play a critical role. “We need mandatory courses on professional communication and other real-world skills,” Webber says.
According to LinkedIn's 2024 Global Talent Trends report, 69% of U.S. executives say they plan to prioritize hiring candidates with soft skills, especially transferable skills that allow them to move across roles. And with Gen Z making up about 27% of the workforce by 2025, companies need to speak Gen Z's language.
The path is clear: Employers can bridge the gap by incorporating soft skills training into onboarding programs. “When seasoned employees take the time to guide younger colleagues, it fosters not just learning but also trust and collaboration,” Yates says.
It’s easy to focus on the challenges, but remember there's a silver lining: Gen Z is eager to learn. “This generation is incredibly talented and resourceful,” Yates says. “With the right support and training, they can thrive in any industry.”
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