83% of Generation Z would rather resign than deal with bad managers

Have you ever wanted to quit your job because of a shitty boss? Whether you’re working with a micromanaging dictator or a leader who can’t regulate their emotions, there are hundreds of qualities that make a boss not so ideal to work with.

Now, thanks to a new report, it appears young Australians are no longer willing to put up with the antics of a bad boss.

LinkedIn’s Workplace Trust Index (WCI) found that 83 percent of Gen Z workers and 80 percent of millennials said they would leave their job if they had a bad boss. That’s a power move if I’ve ever heard one.

According to a career expert Cayla Dengatethis is due to the shift in generational ideas about what work is from one generation to the next.

“Gen Z isn’t afraid to move on,” Cayla told PEDESTRIAN.TV.

“While other generations may have a jaded view of what they can expect from a boss, it’s Gen Z who demands better and is ready to walk away. Traditional grassroots leadership won’t cut it when it comes to Generation Z. This is a generation that knows what they want and will make it heard.

The WCI also revealed that Gen Z doesn’t view work as the be-all and end-all like previous generations (I’m talking to you, exhausted millennials). It’s just one aspect of their life.

“Young Australians are putting workplace relationships at the forefront of their career decisions,” Cayla continued.

“Unlike older generations, Gen Z tends to view work as just a part of life, not the bigger picture. They really enjoy being fulfilled in their work and having good relationships with their managers.

While there are many factors that contribute to a crappy manager, Cayla says it’s crucial to decipher the difference between an underperforming manager and someone you just don’t get along with.

“A bad manager doesn’t give you the support you need to succeed at work,” she says.

“It’s important to differentiate between a bad manager and a simple personality conflict because it can really impact how you feel about your job, your productivity and your overall satisfaction.

“A bad manager exhibits specific behaviors that harm the workplace or employees, rather than just having a different personality. For example, poor communication, micromanagement, and a lack of empathy are clear signs of a bad manager.

What should I do if I have a crappy manager but don’t want to quit?

Unfortunately, bad managers are just one part of the job market. Sometimes if you love what you do, you’ll just have to put up with them.

“Chances are, most people will have at least one bad manager during their career. But it is important that young people feel able to take control of their relationships at work,” explains Cayla.

“A good place to start is to focus on clear communication with your manager. Grab a coffee or virtual catch-up to get clear feedback, set expectations, and avoid misunderstandings. You can also ask for feedback or support from other managers on your team who can offer you advice and guidance.

Ultimately, the more you communicate with your manager, the more supportive and productive your work environment will be.

“It’s important to communicate your career goals and ambitions to your manager so that you have a solid foundation to work from,” says Cayla.

“Actively seeking and applying constructive feedback shows your commitment to growth and try to understand your manager’s goals and challenges to align your efforts with the team’s goals.

So whether you want to endure the blow or quit, the choice is yours!