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News

Conscious Unbossing: How Gen Z is Redefining Leadership

By:
Emma Slack-Jorgensen
Published Date:
Jan 14, 2025


Gen Z is challenging traditional workplace norms. The latest concept to emerge from their ethos is “conscious unbossing”—a term that encapsulates their reluctance to pursue middle management roles. A recent HR Exchange Network article reveals how this generation’s unique priorities and experiences are reshaping the future of leadership. 

Growing up during significant economic and societal challenges—such as the Great Recession of 2007 to 2009 and COVID-19—has significantly molded Gen Z’s philosophy around work. Younger workers generally value well-being, work-life balance and autonomy over traditional markers of success, such as chasing promotions or certain titles. According to a Robert Walters survey, more than half of Gen Z workers are actively avoiding middle management roles, citing high stress and low reward as key deterrents. 

For Gen Z, the financial and professional trade-offs of management positions often don’t align with their goals. While previous generations viewed promotions as a path to greater stability and prestige, Gen Z sees the additional responsibilities as a threat to their mental health. Small salary increases and title changes aren’t enough to justify the added stress and workload. Instead, they prioritize developing their own skills and carving out nontraditional career paths, according to HR Exchange.

The rise of conscious unbossing presents challenges for organizations accustomed to hierarchical structures. With fewer employees willing to take on middle management roles, companies may need to rethink their approach to leadership. Flat or horizontal structures that emphasize collaboration over rigid supervision could become more common. Early examples include layoffs targeting middle management at companies like Meta and Citigroup, signaling a shift toward leaner organizational models. 

Despite Gen Z’s push for change, there is a concern about how these preferences will impact workplace dynamics. Some hiring managers report frustration with recent graduates, citing poor work ethic and insufficient professionalism. However, as Gen Z inevitably take on more influential roles, their ideas about work, leadership and collaboration are likely to shape the next generation of workplace culture.