Many young people don’t feel ready to lead—mainly because managing a team can seem confusing and stressful. Most Gen Z workers haven’t received proper leadership training and worry about guiding people who are older or more experienced. For them, it’s better to grow step by step than to rush into a role they can’t yet handle.
52% of Gen-Z employees don’t want to be managers
In a survey by recruitment firm Robert Walters, 52% of Gen Z professionals said they don’t want to hold middle-management roles. This article explores the key reasons why so many young professionals are saying no to leadership positions.
It’s their choice
More than half of Gen Z workers are choosing to skip managerial roles. They value autonomy, lower stress, and roles that focus on skills rather than hierarchy. Have a look at 7 key reasons Gen Z are staying away from managerial roles.
They Don’t Want Too Much Stress
Whether you like it or not, Gen Z cares a lot about mental health and peace of mind. Most of them have seen their parents or older coworkers work long hours. Since managers are always busy, tired, and worried about targets, the pressure looks scary to Gen Z. They want to enjoy work and not be exhausted by it.
Work Life Balance
In India, the managers are expected to answer calls and messages anytime, and there’s no real off time for them. Gen Z wants a job that lets them rest or have a personal/social life after work. They believe personal life is just as important as career. Always being available sounds tiring and unfair to them.
They Want Freedom, Not Control
Gen Z loves flexibility and creativity at work. They are known for choosing their own schedule and work style. Mostly, managers have to follow strict rules and handle deadlines, and this feels like losing freedom and fun to GenZ. They would rather choose to be responsible for their own work only. Being free matters more to them than giving orders.
They See Success Differently
One of the most important reasons is that Gen Z defines success as happiness, freedom, and passion. Older generations saw success as climbing the ladder. Since Gen Z prefers to explore new things and grow in their own way, being a manager feels limiting, not inspiring. For them, joy is the real measure of success.
They Hate Office Politics
Bosses often have to deal with gossip, fights, and secret agendas, which Gen Z finds fake and unnecessary. They prefer open talks and honest relationships at work, and office politics makes them uncomfortable and stressed. They avoid roles that involve dealing with drama regularly, as they do not want to play games to please everyone.
They Don’t Like Old-Style Offices
There’s a reason you would find Gen Z choosing start-ups over old, well-established companies. They like workplaces where everyone’s voice is heard. Old systems with a “boss and employee” feel outdated to them. Gen Z believes in co-working, not just following orders. They believe creativity grows in equal teams.
The Pay Doesn’t Feel Worth It
Many see managers taking double the stress for little extra pay, which Gen Z often calls peanuts. Gen Z does not believe in relying on one source for income. Gen Z wants smart work, not overwork. They look for jobs that reward talent and ideas instead. It’s not that money does not matter to them; it’s just that it should not come at the cost of happiness.