Workplaces operate on more than just formal policies and job descriptions. Beneath the surface lies an unspoken set of social rules and norms—how loud to speak, how to dress, what to say (and what not to), and even when to keep quiet. These expectations are rarely written down, but they're essential to smooth functioning in most professional environments.
However, as Gen-Z begins to enter the workforce in greater numbers, some employers are finding that these young professionals aren’t always attuned to those unwritten codes. In response, companies in San Francisco and beyond are turning to etiquette coaches to help bridge the cultural gap.
According to a recent report by *The San Francisco Standard*, there has been a noticeable uptick in businesses seeking guidance from workplace etiquette experts. Rosalinda Randall, a local etiquette consultant, reported a 50% increase in business inquiries over the past two months alone. From tech startups to traditional institutions like country clubs, managers across industries are raising concerns about behaviors they find inappropriate or disruptive.
Some examples include younger employees leaving food wrappers on breakroom tables, assuming janitorial staff will clean up after them. Others have expressed concern about personal hygiene habits, including infrequent showering or changing clothes. Even in hospitals, some Gen-Z workers have reportedly tried to avoid routine but necessary tasks like cleaning bedpans. Managers often feel hesitant to address these issues directly, noting that they don’t want to come across as overly parental.
To address these challenges, Randall offers customized workshops aimed at helping new hires understand the subtleties of workplace communication and behavior—from how to ask a supervisor for help politely, to mastering nonverbal cues like eye contact and body language.
This isn’t just about table manners—it’s about navigating the complex web of professionalism, boundaries, and respect that underpins most office cultures. And it’s not unique to San Francisco. Similar reports have surfaced nationwide, painting a broader picture of Gen-Z’s distinct approach to work.
For one, this generation is known for rejecting rigid 9-to-5 structures and showing reluctance toward leadership roles that come with high pressure and long hours. They’re also accused of “oversharing” personal details—discussing mental health struggles, relationship problems, or other private topics in ways that make older colleagues uncomfortable.
Business etiquette coach Mariah Grumet recently echoed many of these themes in a conversation with *Business Insider*. She reminded professionals that certain topics—like religion, politics, appearance, or personal health—are best left for conversations outside the office. She also emphasized fundamentals such as punctuality, respectful communication, and aligning body language with verbal messages.
These concerns aren’t just theoretical. On platforms like Reddit, managers have openly sought advice on training teams who seem unfamiliar with basic workplace norms—like answering phone calls professionally, sending proper emails, or simply avoiding yelling across the room or slamming phones.
So, should companies be concerned—or see an opportunity?
There are two ways to look at this generational shift.
**First**, it may be time to reassess how well younger employees are integrating into your organization—not just in terms of performance, but also in their ability to navigate workplace dynamics. Are they struggling with unspoken expectations? Are their behaviors causing friction among coworkers? If so, investing in soft skills training or mentorship programs could reduce tension and improve overall morale—and potentially boost productivity.
**Second**, rather than framing this solely as a problem, consider what Gen-Z can teach us.
They bring a fresh perspective shaped by digital-native experiences, the pandemic’s disruption of normal social development, and the rise of remote work—all of which have blurred the lines between home and office life. Their emphasis on work-life balance, for instance, challenges outdated notions of the "always-on" employee and may push organizations to rethink burnout-inducing practices.
Even their casual approach to dress could spark a reevaluation of outdated dress codes. After all, the traditional suit-and-tie uniform has roots in centuries-old customs. Maybe now is the time to create more inclusive, practical standards that reflect modern values and comfort without sacrificing professionalism.
In short, while Gen-Z may not instinctively know all the unspoken rules of the office, they might also hold the keys to reshaping workplaces into more flexible, empathetic, and sustainable environments.
Whether through coaching, open dialogue, or mutual learning, bridging the generational gap could benefit everyone—from entry-level employees to seasoned executives.