My Quotes from Business Insider re: Gen Z

Rebecca Knight, a reporter for Business Insider asked me to discuss our Gen Z co-workers. Apparently they prefer to work from home. Yet what do they miss from not working with others in an office? She quoted me as saying: “You find who you can trust and who you need to be wary of. You discover who you can be yourself with and who you need to edit yourself around. And you also find out, sometimes the hard way, who’s loyal and who’s more self-centered.”

In my book Better You Better Friends: A Whole New Approach to Friendship. there’s an entire chapter dedicated to the value of communicating with colleagues in real time. Even though there can be pitfalls working from the office, such as, the commute or gossip. Feeling connected and being able to navigate conflicts in real time, overrules the negatives.

In this chapter, an executive coach gives great tips on how to become a better friend at work!

My quote: “When you’re working remotely, it’s too easy to disappear or simply choose to avoid certain people when you need to deal with conflict or resolve communication challenges.” In my interview with Rebecca Knight, I discuss how it’s easier to curate yourself via Zoom. Yet by avoiding debates, and being too “nice,” you don’t learn how to resolve issues that arise in real time. This is a basic skill you need to negotiate your ideas, and forge your careers!

For more information, visit Glenda’s website.”

Quote from my book: “With all of these challenges… I have to say that I still see a huge advantage of having a close friend—whether expressive or instrumental—in the workplace. Because, let’s face it, most of us work long hours and we put significant energy into our jobs. Having a few close buddies at work can help you feel more productive and engaged. Work friends provide support and caring, and they give you perspective and feedback for the job you’re doing—a great plus for me! Basically, they’ve got your back.”

Pick up tips and find inspiration from my conversation with Matt Crawford, on his popular and inspired podcast: The Curious Mans Podcast, check it out!

Remember… a great friend starts with you!