Gen Z Isn’t the Problem, They’re the Signal

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If you've read the headlines lately, you've probably seen Gen Z under fire: lazy, entitled, unprofessional. The media loves a generational scapegoat. But here's the truth, this generation isn't the problem. They’re a reflection of what leadership must evolve to become.

As someone who built an award-winning PR agency from scratch in my 20s, I know how it feels to be underestimated because of your age. I also know how powerful the right mentorship, environment, and messaging can be.

In my recent Fast Company byline, I share what I’ve learned from managing, mentoring, and championing Gen Z talent and what today’s business leaders can do to better support the future of work.

📰 Read the article in Fast Company!

3 Things Gen Z Is Actually Teaching Us About Leadership

1. Clear communication is everything
Gen Z has grown up bombarded with content. If your message doesn’t land clearly and authentically, it won’t land at all. They crave directness, feedback, and context, not corporate speak.

2. Culture has to be felt, not just said
Pizza parties don’t build loyalty. They want to see you practice what you preach, about boundaries, work-life balance, and how people are treated day-to-day. Leadership is lived behavior.

3. They’re not fragile, they’re adaptive
This is the most self-taught, internet-native generation we’ve seen. They’re curious, quick to learn, and deeply values-driven. What they need isn’t hand-holding, it’s structure, vision, and space to contribute.

If you’re navigating how to manage your team, clarify your voice, or build your brand in this new era you don’t need another article. You need guidance. That’s why I’m re-opening my 1:1 PR Consulting Sessions.

These are intimate, strategy-packed calls designed to help you:

• Sharpen your messaging (whether it’s internal or external)

• Craft a compelling brand story or leadership POV

• Better understand what the media actually wants

• Gain practical steps for landing coverage, managing perception, and elevating your reputation

💡 Two 30-minute sessions, designed to move fast and go deep. 

This reminder is especially important if you're leading a team, showing up in the media, or building a presence in a crowded space. Messaging isn’t just about what you say, it’s about what you stand for.

Whether you're mentoring Gen Z talent, pitching to press, or refining your founder story, this clarity is the foundation for everything that follows.

Get your copy today and start telling your brand’s story with You Need PR!