Generational labels like “Gen Z” are often used to simplify workplace trends, but they can do more harm than good, according to a report by Fortune.

Instead of offering insight, these labels can fuel stereotypes that ignore the diversity and complexity within each age group. Gen Z, for instance, has been portrayed as both tech-savvy and entitled, adaptable and difficult—all depending on the narrative of the moment. 

Some experts say that the same mistake are being made with “Generation Beta." Many argue there’s no clear social or technological shift to define this next group yet, and labeling them too early risks creating misguided assumptions about their future behaviors.

Jessica Kriegel, chief strategy officer at Culture Partners, calls generational labels “a destructive way of simplifying the complexity of human behavior into buckets of stereotypes.” She warns that these labels can undermine the individuality and potential of workers by forcing them into narrow categories. 

At work, generational labels are often used to predict values and performance, but they overlook the real issues that impact all employees: fair pay, work-life balance and supportive environments.

Rather than dividing teams by birth year, businesses should focus on creating conditions that help everyone succeed. Jumping to label the next generation before fully understanding the art one may deepen these divides.