Organisations must “overcommunicate” to engage Gen Z workforce

From easing nerves in the early days of a role to boosting long-term retention, communication has a crucial part to play in shaping young employees’ experience at work. And when done well, it not only strengthens engagement but also drives better performance across teams.

According to training consultancy Development Beyond Learning (DBL), simple shifts in communication — from “clarity over assumption” to “frequent and intentional check-ins” — can foster stronger connections, reduce stress, and help new talent thrive.

In a recent discussion on Gen Z engagement, DBL Founder Josh Mackenzie joined Gen Z thought-leaders Victor Sonaya, Patrick Quinton Smith, and Hanna Maclachlan in discussing and identifying four key strategies organisations can adopt to help younger employees feel more connected at work.

So, what were these practices?…

  1. Clarity over assumption – Be explicit about job expectations, team dynamics, and workplace norms. This reduces ambiguity and helps young professionals feel more secure in their roles.
  2. Frequent and intentional check-ins – Regular, structured conversations go a long way. These touchpoints ensure employees feel heard, supported and in the loop.
  3. Embracing digital-first communication – Gen Z has grown up in a digital world. Leaning into tools and channels they’re comfortable with — while still being clear and structured — can improve communication flow.
  4. Encouraging open dialogue – Foster a culture where questions are welcome and feedback is transparent. It sets the tone for honesty and ongoing growth.

“The consensus on overcommunication was unanimous. It doesn’t mean bombarding employees with messages though, it means ensuring clarity, openness and communicating with context,” reflected Josh.

As Gen Z continues to make up a growing share of the workforce, businesses are being urged to rethink how they communicate with younger employees — and the need for a more mindful approach is clear. Recent research from Mental Health UK (2025) shows that nearly half of 18- to 24-year-olds feel isolated at work (44%) — with communication channels and our relationship with management key to that. A study from the advisory company Gallup reveals that our relationship with our manager has a 70% influence on how we feel at work.

RELATED: The high-cost of low-engagement: a call to action for UK businesses

A business case for age-inclusive communication

Getting this right is good for performance as well as culture. A study from the London School of Economics found that 87% of employees in age-inclusive workplaces report high productivity, compared to just 58% in those without these practices.

“Gen Z employees expect transparency. They are used to finding answers instantly and if they feel information is being withheld, it creates frustration and disconnect,” noted Patrick Quinton Smith, in the conversation. “When organisations overcommunicate, starting with the ‘why’, Gen Z employees are more likely to trust leadership and engage.”

Leaders who prioritise clear, transparent and contextual communication will be better placed to unlock Gen Z’s potential. 

Closing the gap between expectations and reality

For many young employees, the transition from university or training into the world of work can be jarring — especially when their expectations don’t match reality.

Victor Sonaya explained that without open communication, Gen Z hires are at risk of building unrealistic ideas about their roles, only to become disengaged when they realise the reality is quite different.

Hanna Maclachlan, Subsea7 early talent specialist, added that by “embedding structured communication strategies into graduate and internship programs, organisations can provide a smoother transition and stronger alignment with workplace culture.”

The main takeaway for business leaders? Clear, transparent and contextual communication is a necessity. Leaders who prioritise this approach will be better placed to unlock Gen Z’s potential, build trust, and strengthen performance across the business.