Nairobi News

While millennials were often urged to persist even within toxic work environments, the Gen Z have shunned that path. They do not conform to the same mindset as their predecessors.

A significant majority of Gen Zs appear to adopt a more carefree attitude, quickly detecting signs of unhealthy work relations and being less willing to tolerate them.

Speaking to Nairobi News, Stephen Okoth, 23, shared his experience of leaving his attachment due to an unfavorable workplace environment.

He expressed his aversion to being constantly pressured and given numerous tasks, stating that he believes in the importance of working but also values open communication about his feelings.

According to Okoth, the company did not appreciate employees who advocated for their rights and spoke up about their concerns.

“I am not comfortable with individuals who constantly impose pressure on me, expecting me to handle multiple tasks. I acknowledge the importance of fulfilling my responsibilities, but I also believe in communicating my feelings when I feel overwhelmed,” Okoth said.

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“Unfortunately, the company had a negative stance towards employees who voiced their concerns and stood up for their rights. This ultimately led me to make the decision to quit my attachment,” he explained further.

Irene Dera echoed similar sentiments regarding toxic workplaces.

“I am unable to tolerate a harmful work environment, and if the only incentive is monetary, then I am willing to let it go,” she told Nairobi News.

The perspective of the two (Okoth and Dera) highlights the growing awareness among Gen Z, about the detrimental effects of toxic work settings on their well-being and mental health.

As millennials ‘merry’ in sharing stories of their early experiences being molded by challenging situations, Gen Z seems to be different.

The millennials view these encounters as instrumental in developing resilience and determination. Many of the older generations take pride in these experiences, attributing them to shaping their lives.

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However, Gen Zs appear to embrace change and shows their unwillingness to tolerate negative atmospheres or cultures.

Majority of Gen Zs openly state that they left jobs regardless of the compensation because the workplace environment wasn’t conducive or they didn’t get along with colleagues.

However, constant negative criticism, especially from millennials who frequently label the current generation as troublesome, always push many Gen Zs into a reactive and defensive mode. Repeated exposure to such negativity can ultimately lead to a breaking point.

When applying for job opportunities, a substantial portion of Gen Zs view compensation as a top concern. They argue that if they’re exerting energy, they deserve adequate pay.

While millennials often exhibited loyalty, remaining in the same job or work environment for years, Gen Zs finds this approach uninteresting.

They are more concerned about the value they derive from their efforts. As soon as they realize they aren’t benefiting as they should, many quickly transition to something they deem more valuable.

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