15 Must-Know Gen Z Terms for Workplace Communication

With Gen Z making up nearly 30% of the workforce by 2025, their unique communication style is reshaping workplace dynamics. Struggling to keep up with their slang? Here's a quick guide to bridge the generational gap and improve collaboration.

Key Terms to Know:

1. No Cap: Means "being honest" or "no lie."
2. Lit: Describes something exciting or impressive.
3. Slay: Praises exceptional performance or success.
4. Brat: Represents bold self-expression and individuality.
5. Rizz: Refers to charisma or magnetic presence.
6. Brain Rot: Describes mental exhaustion from information overload.
7. Sus: Short for "suspicious."
8. Bet: Indicates agreement or enthusiasm.
9. Flex: Showing off achievements or skills.
10. Mood: Expresses relatable feelings or shared experiences.
11. Receipts: Refers to evidence or proof.
12. Vibe Check: Gauging team morale or assessing a situation.
13. Glow Up: Highlights personal or professional improvement.
14. High-Key: Means "obviously" or "definitely."
15. Low-Key: Suggests subtle or understated enthusiasm.

Quick Comparison:

Why It Matters:

Gen Z values direct, concise, and inclusive communication. Learning these terms can help you connect with younger colleagues, foster better collaboration, and create a more dynamic workplace. Just remember: use slang sparingly and adapt based on context.

Ready to dive deeper? Let’s break down each term and how to use it effectively.

Effective Workplace Communication Skills for Working with Gen Z Employees

How Gen Z Communicates at Work

Gen Z's preference for digital-first communication has reshaped workplace interactions. They focus on clear, concise messaging that gets straight to the point, emphasizing efficiency [2].

A recent survey found that 98% of Gen Z Americans regularly use slang, compared to 81% of baby boomers. Additionally, 30% of Gen Zers incorporate slang into nearly every conversation [7].

Here’s how their communication style impacts the workplace:

Managers need to adjust their strategies to connect with this generation effectively. As Kylan Stephon Hayes, Owner of Powered By Verity, explains:

"To bridge that gap, managers and people who are older than Gen Z need to understand that we prefer more relaxed communication. Just be blunt, be forward, be honest. And we can see right through communication that is anything less than that." [4]

Gen Z's influence is growing rapidly - they're expected to make up 30-35% of the workforce by 2030 [6]. Already, 71% of UK workers say younger colleagues are reshaping the formality of workplace language [5].

Some key elements of their communication style include:

• Genuine exchanges: They steer clear of corporate jargon.
• Brevity: They value short, direct messages.
• Visual aids: Emojis and visuals help clarify their points.
• Inclusivity: They prioritize gender-neutral and diverse language.

Min, an L&D Manager, highlights the benefits of this shift:

"Their writing became more concise and to the point, more efficient than previously. They began to use more gender-neutral language, contributing to a more inclusive environment. And when the tone of our team members' written communication started to become less formal, our overseas colleagues told me that they seemed more approachable." [2]

Despite their impact, only 32% of Gen Z workers currently feel they have the resources to succeed in the workplace [4]. Adapting to their preferences can help bridge generational divides, improve team collaboration, and create a more productive environment. Their approach fosters transparency, faster decision-making, and stronger team connections.

1. No Cap: Being Honest

"No cap" means being straightforward and truthful. The term comes from AAVE and has roots in an early 1900s expression linked to bragging. Today, it emphasizes honesty in communication [8].

It became widely recognized in the late 2010s and early 2020s [9]. As Jack Kelly from Forbes puts it:

"The phrase 'no cap' means 'I'm telling the truth' or 'I'm not lying.'" [1]

This straightforwardness makes it handy for workplace updates. Using "no cap" can bring clarity to team conversations:

While "no cap" conveys honesty, its casual tone fits better in informal team chats than in formal client settings. On the flip side, "cap" signals dishonesty, as in "That's cap", which can call out exaggerations. Using this slang thoughtfully can help connect across generational language styles in today's workplace [10].

2. Lit: Very Good

"Lit" is a term that conveys excitement and positivity, often used to describe something enjoyable, impressive, or cool. Its roots trace back to jazz culture from the 1910s [1].

In workplace settings, "lit" is an informal way to show approval or enthusiasm for achievements. For example, after a successful project, someone might say, "The team collaboration on this project has been lit; I really appreciate everyone's contributions!" [1]

However, it's important to consider your audience and the context. A survey found that 84% of Americans think slang doesn't belong in the workplace [11]. Workplace communication expert Kevon Martin explains:

"Older colleagues can benefit from being more relatable to their younger coworkers, so they know how to appeal to a younger customer base. However, Gen Z must also recognize you can't come to work and use whatever slang words you use with each other because it's not the same environment." [11]

When used appropriately, "lit" can help connect team members from different generations. Stick to informal settings for this term, like casual internal chats, and opt for words like "excellent" or "outstanding" in more formal or client-facing communications. Up next, we'll dive into another phrase that captures the evolving communication style of Gen Z.

3. Slay: Great Job

Let’s dive into "slay" - a term that applauds top-notch performance. Originating from AAVE and widely embraced by LGBTQ+ communities [12][13], "slay" is all about recognizing someone who is excelling or "killing it."

Picture this: during a team meeting, someone says, "Jessica slayed her presentation today! She was confident, prepared, and nailed the pitch." It's a way to celebrate individual success and uplift team spirit.

Here are a few examples:

"Slay" works best in informal, upbeat settings. For formal situations, stick with phrases like "outstanding performance" or "exceptional achievement."

It's a fun, inclusive way to show appreciation and make everyone feel recognized for their efforts.

4. Brat: Brand Attitude

The slang terms "no cap" and "lit" have brought attention to honesty and enthusiasm, but now "brat" is making waves as a new take on personal branding in the workplace.

For Gen Z, "brat" has become a compliment, symbolizing bold and unapologetic self-expression. This shift marks a change in workplace culture, reshaping how professionals showcase their personalities and brands.

This table highlights how a "brat" mindset brings a fresh perspective to professional interactions. Gen Z's preference for bold and genuine communication is influencing workplace dynamics in a big way.

"The intersection of 'Brat' culture and Gen Z's values is changing company cultures in important, positive ways, as leaders find ways to celebrate each person's unique skills to create stronger, more resilient teams" [14].

However, "brat" works best in casual contexts. For instance: "Sarah's brat attitude in the client presentation was spot-on - she confidently challenged the conventional approach and proposed an innovative solution that won them over."

Key traits of a professional "brat" mindset include:

• Authentic Expression: Staying true to your personality
• Bold Innovation: Questioning norms and offering creative solutions
• Value-Driven: Standing by principles while promoting teamwork

For formal settings, consider using terms like "innovative mindset" or "bold approach" instead.

5. Rizz: Charisma

The term 'rizz', popularized by Gen Z, has made its way into professional settings, adding a fresh twist to workplace communication. Short for charisma, 'rizz' captures qualities like confidence, charm, and the ability to captivate an audience. It's no surprise that Oxford named it Word of the Year 2023 [15] [1]. In the workplace, 'rizz' serves as a shorthand for describing someone’s magnetic professional presence.

For example, imagine a colleague receiving praise for their engaging presentation: "Your presentation had so much rizz; everyone was captivated by your delivery" [1]. This kind of feedback highlights their ability to connect with the audience and showcase their expertise.

Workplace communication expert Tim Londergan explains, "Charismatic individuals project a sense of genuine warmth and competence" [16]. This perfectly aligns with the concept of 'rizz' and how it applies to professional interactions.

Want to develop your own 'rizz'? Focus on these key elements:

• Authentic Connection: Build real relationships by actively listening and showing genuine interest.
• Competent Communication: Speak with clarity and confidence to convey your message effectively.
• Positive Energy: Bring enthusiasm to your work while staying professional.

"Your own brand of charisma is not about changing who you are. It's more about knowing who you are and appreciating what you can learn from and about others." - Jeff Haden [16]

6. Brain Rot: Information Overload

Modern workplaces aren't just about creative communication - they're also grappling with challenges like digital fatigue. "Brain rot" is a term for the mental exhaustion caused by overwhelming digital content. On average, workers process the equivalent of 174 newspapers worth of information daily [20].

Dr. Jared Ng describes brain rot as a state of burnout from consuming endless streams of shallow, repetitive content [17]. And it’s not just an abstract concept - 65% of employees report struggling with information overload [20]. On top of that, workers lose about 3 hours and 27 minutes weekly managing this flood of information [19], and it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to refocus after interruptions [20].

Biljana Rakic from CAKE.com points out that this constant overload overwhelms employees. Each interaction demands emotional energy, making teamwork and collaboration more difficult [21].

How to Combat Brain Rot

Here are a few practical strategies to help manage this mental strain:

"Trust your community to filter and flow the right things to you when you need them."
– Jerry Michalski, technology consultant [20]

Tackling brain rot is especially important for Gen Z, who value clear and efficient communication. By addressing this issue, workplaces can ensure that fast-paced digital exchanges don’t come at the cost of productivity or mental well-being. Recognizing the problem is the first step toward better information habits.

7. Sus: Suspicious

"Sus" is a quick way to express doubt or skepticism, fitting perfectly into Gen Z's direct communication style. Originally popularized by the online game "Among Us" [23], this shorthand for "suspicious" actually dates back to the 1950s in Australia and New Zealand [23]. Today, it’s not just a gaming term - it’s made its way into professional settings to flag concerns or questionable situations.

A recent survey found that "sus" is the most used slang word among teens in 2023, with 62% of parents noting it as the most common term they hear from their kids [22]. Unsurprisingly, this widespread use has crept into workplace conversations, where it serves as a fast, informal way to express doubt.

Sylvia Johnson, head of methodology at Preply, sheds light on its meaning:

"Kids nowadays interpret the word 'suspicious' as something slightly dodgy or uncomfortable... Children tend to take on these words and interpret it in their own way and when they find it difficult to locate, within their lexicon, another word to express their discomfort, they fall back on slang." [22]

Professional Usage Guidelines

While "sus" reflects Gen Z's preference for concise and candid communication, it’s important to use it thoughtfully in professional settings. Avoid applying it to individuals, as it could come across as accusatory. Instead, focus on processes or situations. For example, rather than calling a colleague "sus", say, "The way this process was implemented feels sus" to point out areas needing improvement.

Used wisely, "sus" can help bridge communication styles across generations and make workplace discussions clearer and more efficient.

sbb-itb-ca058e4

8. Bet: Agreement

Gen Z's knack for keeping communication short and snappy brings us to 'bet,' a casual way to show agreement or commitment. Rooted in AAVE and gaining traction through hip-hop and social media [24], this term has become a go-to for acknowledging tasks or confirming plans.

"Bet: expresses agreement or acceptance, similar to saying 'okay' or 'sure.' It can be used to acknowledge a task or confirm understanding of instructions." [1]

What makes 'bet' stand out is its ability to convey enthusiasm in a way that feels modern and approachable. Here's how you can incorporate it into professional interactions without losing clarity.

Professional Usage Guidelines

Using "Bet" at Work

You can use 'bet' in more casual professional settings to encourage collaboration [24]. For example, if a coworker says, "Can you send over that document by the end of the day?" replying with "Bet" communicates both acknowledgment and readiness [3]. However, in formal situations, stick to more traditional affirmations to maintain professionalism.

9. Flex: Show Off

"Flex" is a fun way to describe casually showcasing your achievements or skills. Lucy Leonard from GoCo.io puts it perfectly:

"So next time you hear one of these terms around the office, you'll be in the know - and that's a major flex." - Lucy Leonard, GoCo.io [3]

What Does Flexing Look Like at Work?

How you use "flex" depends on the situation and your office culture. Here are a few examples to help you understand:

How to Use "Flex" Professionally

Using "flex" in a workplace setting is all about balance. Confidence is great, but humility is key. Some workplaces are cool with casual terms like this, while others prefer a more formal tone. Overdoing it can make you seem boastful or unprofessional [25]. A little modesty goes a long way in keeping things professional.

10. Mood: Relatable Feeling

In today's workplace, the term "mood" is often used to express a shared feeling or capture the overall vibe of a situation. When someone says "mood", they’re signaling that they resonate with an emotion or experience.

Understanding "Mood" in Professional Settings

Using "mood" can help balance formal and informal communication, allowing team members to show empathy and connection without overexplaining.

These examples show how "mood" can quickly convey shared experiences in informal workplace chats.

Professional Usage Guidelines

While "mood" can make conversations feel more relatable, it’s important to use it thoughtfully. Kevon Martin offers a useful perspective:

"Older colleagues can benefit from being more adaptable and relatable to their younger coworkers, so they know how to appeal to a younger customer base. However, Gen Z must also recognize you can't come to work and use whatever slang words you use with each other because it's not the same environment." [11]

This highlights the need for a balanced approach - making connections without losing sight of the professional setting.

Digital Communication Considerations

Digital communication can make it harder to convey emotions clearly [26]. To avoid misunderstandings, keep these strategies in mind:

• Pick the right channel: If emotions are involved, consider face-to-face meetings or phone calls instead of relying on text.
• Add context: Briefly explain why something resonates with you.
• Gauge the audience: Make sure casual language like "mood" aligns with your workplace culture.

While "mood" can help create a sense of connection, it’s crucial to maintain professionalism and clear communication across all generations.

11. Receipts: Evidence

'Receipts' provide a practical way to verify actions and ensure transparency in the workplace. Think of them as records that back up claims or interactions - helping to avoid confusion and miscommunication.

What Are "Receipts" at Work?

Receipts in a professional setting can take many forms, such as:

• Email threads and screenshots: Capturing written agreements or conversations.
• Performance reviews and meeting recordings: Documenting feedback or discussions.
• Digital timestamps and documentation: Keeping track of when tasks or approvals happen.
• Physical document records: Maintaining hard copies for reference.

Why Receipts Matter

Using receipts helps create clear communication trails and protects everyone involved. Here's how they make a difference:

Tips for Effective Documentation

1. Follow up verbal discussions with email summaries: Keep them short, factual, and professional to avoid any miscommunication.

"I always push hard to communicate and receive communication via email. That way there is no confusion about what was and wasn't said" [28].

2. Organize your receipts: Use tools like:

   • Dedicated folders in your email inbox
   • Cloud-based storage platforms
   • Secure digital archives for easy access

"Accountability is the glue that ties commitment to results" [27].

Real-Life Example

One employee successfully resolved a dispute about time-off by sharing a timestamped email from their manager [28]. This simple action highlighted the value of receipts in maintaining clear and accountable communication.

Using Receipts Effectively

To make the most of receipts in a professional setting:

• Focus on documenting critical matters only.
• Always maintain a professional tone.
• Think about the long-term relevance of the documentation.
• Use receipts to build trust and strengthen workplace relationships.

12. Vibe Check: Assess Situation

Incorporating Gen Z slang into professional settings, vibe checks are a straightforward way to "read the room." They help gauge team dynamics and spot potential challenges. Let’s dive into how vibe checks work and when they make sense.

What Are Workplace Vibe Checks?

A vibe check is a quick way to:

• Evaluate team morale
• Spot early warning signs
• Promote open dialogue
• Strengthen team connections

When to Use Vibe Checks

Vibe checks can fit seamlessly into various workplace scenarios:

Tips for Using Vibe Checks Effectively

• Keep It Quick: Short check-ins are less disruptive and still provide valuable insights [29].
• Go Asynchronous: For remote teams, use tools like Slack to encourage responses across time zones.
• Create a Judgment-Free Zone: Make participation optional and ensure no one feels pressured to share. This fosters trust and honest feedback.

Examples to Try

Here are some prompts to integrate into your vibe checks:

• "What’s one thing you accomplished today that you’re proud of?"
• "What helps you stay focused during the day?"
• "When do you feel most productive?"

Why It Matters

Regular vibe checks can improve team communication, boost emotional awareness, and strengthen workplace relationships. They also help teams catch small issues before they become big problems. These quick, informal moments of connection create a more engaged and responsive work environment.

13. Glow Up: Improvement

Building on the discussion about team dynamics, the idea of a "Glow Up" reflects the journey of ongoing professional growth. In today's workplace, it’s about leveling up skills, confidence, and overall professional presence.

What Does a Workplace Glow Up Look Like?

A professional Glow Up can involve growth in several areas:

Ways to Encourage Glow Ups at Work

Managers play a big role in fostering growth. They can do this through mentorship programs, focused workshops, challenging assignments, and regular feedback. These efforts create a supportive environment for employees to thrive.

Putting Glow Ups Into Practice

A manager might describe a training session as a chance for the team to "glow up" by sharpening their skills. This shows how the concept isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a way to foster real, measurable growth.

Recognizing Progress Effectively

When recognizing a colleague’s improvement, use professional language with a modern twist. Highlighting growth in areas like confidence or expertise helps create a workplace culture that values development and progress.

Setting Goals for Growth

Clear, actionable goals are key to driving meaningful improvements. For example, an employee might focus on improving public speaking skills to feel more self-assured during presentations. With nearly 30% of Gen Z using slang in most conversations [7], incorporating relatable language like "Glow Up" can boost morale while keeping the focus on professional growth.

Using the concept of a Glow Up in workplace communication strikes a balance between a modern tone and a commitment to continuous improvement.

14. High-Key: Obviously

"High-key" is a Gen Z term that's making its way into workplace conversations, adding a modern way to express strong certainty. It’s essentially a fresh way to say "obviously" or "definitely" [30].

When to Use "High-Key" at Work

Before using "high-key" in a professional setting, consider whether your workplace culture is open to informal expressions. It's not about forcing it into conversations but knowing when it fits naturally.

How It Can Be Used

This term can be handy in scenarios like:

• Team discussions about priorities
• Sharing updates on projects
• Brainstorming sessions
• Giving or receiving feedback

For instance, during a team meeting, someone might say, "High-key, this new project management tool has transformed how we work. It’s boosted both productivity and teamwork" [30].

Finding the Right Balance

To keep your communication effective, switch between modern and formal language based on your audience. While "high-key" can make your tone more relatable, stick to formal language if the situation calls for it.

15. Low-Key: Subtly

"Low-key" conveys a subtle, understated tone, making it the opposite of "high-key." In professional environments, it helps tone down expressions while keeping communication approachable [31].

This phrase is perfect for showing restrained enthusiasm or quiet interest [32]. Its understated nature works well in specific workplace scenarios.

Here are some situations where "low-key" fits:

• Team discussions that need balanced responses
• Expressing mild interest in opportunities
• Sharing tentative thoughts on projects
• Maintaining harmony in group dynamics

For instance, during a project planning meeting, you might say, "I'm low-key interested in that new project" [31].

While "high-key" emphasizes strong opinions, "low-key" provides a more measured, thoughtful expression that works well in collaborative settings. Check out these examples:

Use "low-key" sparingly to convey mild enthusiasm while keeping things professional [32].

Using Gen Z Terms at Work

By 2025, Gen Z is expected to make up nearly 30% of the workforce [1]. To connect with this group effectively, adopting their concise and straightforward communication style can make a difference - provided it's adjusted based on the context and audience.

Adjusting for Communication Channels

Here’s how to adapt based on the platform or setting:

• Team Chat Apps: A casual environment where informal terms can work well.
• Internal Meetings: Some slang can help build rapport, but don't overdo it.
• Client Communications: Keep it professional and avoid slang entirely.
• Executive Presentations: Stick to formal business language for clarity and professionalism.

These guidelines ensure communication stays effective and appropriate, regardless of the audience.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Matthew Woodward, Founder of Search Logistics, highlights the importance of this shift:

"Gen Z's slang isn't just a quirky way of talking; it's a window into their priorities - authenticity, connection, and efficiency. If businesses want to bridge the communication gap and get the best out of their Gen Z workforce, they need to embrace this change." [6]

Best Practices for Implementation

A recent study found that nearly 98% of Gen Z Americans use slang, compared to 81% of baby boomers [7]. Kevon Martin, a 24-year-old HR coordinator, offers a balanced perspective:

"Older colleagues can benefit from being more adaptable and relatable to their younger coworkers, so they know how to appeal to a younger consumer base. However, Gen Z must also recognize you can't come to work and use whatever slang words you'd use with each other because it's not the same environment." [33]

This balance ensures communication evolves without compromising professionalism.

Impact on Workplace Culture

When done right, integrating Gen Z’s communication style can improve innovation and team dynamics [6]. However, its success depends on several factors:

• Workplace Setting: Startups might embrace casual language more than traditional corporations.
• Team Demographics: Tailor your approach based on the generational mix of your team.
• Industry Context: Tech companies are more likely to accept informal language compared to financial institutions.
• Client Relationships: Always prioritize a professional tone in external communications.

The key is blending diverse communication styles while maintaining a professional standard. This approach not only bridges generational gaps but also strengthens workplace culture.

Summary

Understanding how Gen Z communicates in the workplace is key to bridging generational gaps. Striking the right balance between being relatable and maintaining professionalism is essential.

For instance, data highlights a stark difference in slang usage: 98% of Gen Z compared to just 81% of baby boomers use slang regularly [7]. This difference underscores the need to adjust communication styles thoughtfully.

Here are some tips for navigating workplace communication with Gen Z:

• Adjust your tone and language based on your audience.
• Keep up with Gen Z trends by staying active on platforms they frequent.
• Use slang sparingly to ensure messages remain clear and professional.

These strategies help professionals incorporate Gen Z language without losing credibility. Beyond casual chats, Gen Z communication reflects values like openness, honesty, and inclusivity [34]. Tools like the Gen Z Slang Directory can provide helpful definitions and examples to maintain a professional tone while staying current.

Using modern terms thoughtfully can strengthen workplace connections and foster better relationships.