Gen Z workers report generational tensions in first year at work

A new report from Kahoot! highlights the challenges facing young professionals as they enter the UK workforce, revealing widespread generational tensions and early career stress. The findings show that many Gen Z employees feel misunderstood and undervalued, with significant implications for retention, engagement and organisational culture.

The study surveyed 2,000 office-based workers aged 21 to 25 who are in their first year of employment. The research, conducted by OnePoll in September 2025, offers a detailed account of how the youngest cohort of employees are navigating established workplace norms.

Almost half of respondents, 44%, said they had experienced criticism from older colleagues specifically because of generational stereotypes. Many reported being labelled ‘too passionate’ or outspoken, with 47% judged on their communication style, including the use of informal language, slang or humour. 44% said they were criticised for setting personal boundaries and 42% for their appearance.

The report suggests that these experiences are contributing to heightened levels of stress among younger workers. 47% said stress had brought them to tears during their first year and 39% had considered resigning. 68% reported feeling out of their depth at times and nearly one in ten said they always felt this way.

Despite this, the research identifies clear priorities for Gen Z workers: meaningful connections, regular recognition, opportunities for growth and a sense of purpose. Yet many feel these needs are not being met. 24% said their opinions were not taken seriously or were unsure whether they mattered. When asked what would strengthen their sense of belonging, 40% wanted more opportunities to offer their perspective and 38% wanted greater involvement in decision making.

Recognition emerged as another area of concern. Thirty per cent of young workers reported receiving no praise in the previous week. Supportive team relationships, cited by 50%, and acknowledgment of their contributions, cited by 47%, were identified as the most important factors for improving workplace belonging.

The findings also suggest that Gen Z are playing an informal but significant role in raising digital capability within teams. More than half, 57%, said they had taught their manager how to complete a basic digital task, signalling a rise in reverse mentoring and a potential shift in workplace power dynamics.

Jon Neale, Growth Director for the UK and Ireland at Kahoot!, said the results underline a mismatch between the expectations of young employees and the cultures they are entering. ‘The research makes it clear that Gen Z’s entry into the workplace is colliding with entrenched workplace cultures that often do not fit their expectations or strengths,’ he said. ‘They are eager to contribute yet cannot seem to win. While older colleagues resist change, Gen Z willingly bridges generational gaps by teaching managers basic technology skills.’

Neale added that employers risk losing early career talent unless they take steps to adjust. ‘This research should be a wake up call: if leaders want to unlock the potential of Gen Z, they must create a workplace where younger employees are supported, listened to and allowed to thrive. The cost of doing nothing will be high, not just in retention but in innovation, culture and competitiveness.’

Report: Gen Z One Year On The Job.