Every generation encounters skepticism when entering the workforce. Baby boomers were labeled self-centered, Gen X lazy, and millennials entitled. For Gen Z, the story is no different—but the stakes are higher. At the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, business leaders weren’t just talking climate change or economic trends. The pressing question dominating conversations was how the pandemic and technological shifts are reshaping the labor market, particularly for Gen Z. Young workers are entering the workforce with unprecedented leverage, but the very factors giving them power could also put them at risk.

Changing Workplace Norms and “Quiet Quitting”

Low unemployment and high demand for talent have empowered Gen Z to redefine workplace expectations. Remote work, flexible schedules, and digital-first communication are now standard. However, leaders at Davos raised concerns about “quiet quitting” and declining productivity. Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser highlighted the need for retraining and coaching to restore pre-pandemic work habits. Interview ghosting, missed deadlines, and minimal effort are especially pronounced among younger employees in high-skill sectors like banking, tech, and consulting.

Global Shifts in Worker Behavior

The changes aren’t limited to a single country. Executives from the U.S., Germany, and Japan all reported similar patterns: young employees are less loyal, more mobile, and increasingly influenced by digital culture. Long-held cultural norms, such as lifetime employment in Japan, are fading. The result is a global workforce that is harder to manage but increasingly assertive about personal and professional priorities.

Lessons from History: Technology Changes Everything

Technological revolutions have always altered work culture. The industrial revolution pulled workers off farms and into factories, forcing new routines and obedience to supervisors. Historian Joel Mokyr notes that factories initially preferred women and children for their adaptability. Today, digital technology and hybrid work models are triggering a similar transformation. Workers are less tethered to their employers, raising questions about long-term engagement and loyalty.

The Pandemic’s Role in Labor Market Dynamics

Labor shortages across developed markets are partly a pandemic aftershock. Reduced participation, lower immigration, and a surge in demand for goods and services have created a temporary power shift for employees. Many businesses overhired during the post-pandemic boom, only to face potential layoffs as central banks tighten monetary policy. For Gen Z, this means the advantages of a strong labor market may be short-lived, with younger employees particularly vulnerable to early cuts due to limited experience and skills.

Why Human Skills Will Matter More

Automation and AI are increasingly encroaching on white-collar work. This makes uniquely human skills—like communication, empathy, and relationship-building—more valuable than ever. Employees who invest in their professional reputation, participate in office culture, and demonstrate reliability will thrive. Ghosting interviews or phoning it in at work not only undermines career growth but also misses opportunities to build connections that technology cannot replace.

Preparing for an Uncertain Future

For Gen Z, the lesson is clear: workplace flexibility and temporary power come with responsibilities. Developing skills, showing up consistently, and cultivating relationships are essential strategies for long-term career success. While technology may have shifted the balance temporarily, the market will inevitably demand accountability and engagement. Those who ignore this risk finding themselves underprepared when the labor landscape inevitably shifts.

A Cautionary Note

Careers are long, and institutional memory is enduring. Gen Z may currently enjoy more leverage than previous generations, but that advantage will not last forever. The workers who adapt, embrace uniquely human skills, and remain present and accountable in their roles will be best positioned to navigate the next phase of workplace evolution.