The Clash Between Millennials and Generation Z
It is common and natural for younger generations to butt heads with older generations. Gen Xers rolled their eyes at their Boomer and Silent Generation parents. Millennials too have had a long-standing feud with the Boomer generation. Now, Generation Z is all grown up and they have begun speaking out against their Millennial predecessors leading to a generational clash between Millennials and Generation Z.
Fashion
Over the years, fashion goes in cycles and waves. What was out of style last decade is suddenly “in” again today. According to Gen Z, side parts are now “out” and middle parts are back “in,” much to the dismay of Millennials. According to Generation Z fashionistas, you can also kick those skinny jeans to the curb because the wide-legged flared pants of the 70s are back in again! What fashion trends will Generation Z decree next?
Communication
While Millennials prefer to communicate by text messages, it’s common to text a Gen Zer and never receive a response. That’s because Generation Z prefers to communicate over social media apps like Snapchat or Instagram. Also, there’s no need to use correct punctuation, capitalization, or grammar when messaging with Generation Z. They don’t care, and in fact, using proper grammar may actually come off as hostile to them!
College
Millennials often chose college educations that loaded them with thousands of dollars of school loan debt and impractical degrees that left them unable to find jobs in their fields. Generation Z saw through the mishaps of their generational predecessors, and they are more apt to look at technical schools, trade schools, or community college as an option. They will explore more practical degrees that will land them jobs right out of college and they are more likely to begin working and saving in high school so they will have less school debt after they graduate.
Careers
While Millennials chose jobs and careers where they could feel like they were personally given a purpose and a meaning, Generation Z will be choosing jobs and careers where they feel like they are making a real difference in the world. This may seem like a difference of semantics, but not to Generation Z. They want to contribute to a greater purpose, and not just “feel good” about themselves at the end of the work day. Thus, they will seek out careers that bring positive change to the world at large, such as in environmental causes, human rights, social justice, or other global issues.
Activism
While Millennials talk a good game about being socially conscious, Generation Z is undoubtedly a generation of activists. Gen Z will “put their money where their mouths are” and will actively support brands that are eco-friendly, led by diverse teams, and are socially responsible. Gen Zers are the ones out on the streets leading Black Lives Matter rallies. They are more accepting of gender-fluidity and the LGBTQ+ community. Generation Z is setting an example for all older generations and leading the way on social activism.