Gen Z Is Redefining Leadership—Are We Listening?
Across the country, organizations are waking up to a truth Gen Z has been quietly living: leadership isn't about hierarchy—it's about humanity.
In a recent Fast Company article, the message was clear: Gen Z employees are disengaging not because they lack motivation, but because they’re waiting for a different kind of leadership. One that’s grounded in self-awareness, trust, and shared accountability.
At El Puente Institute, we saw this firsthand in our research with Gen Z workers in El Paso. Through an extensive survey and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, we heard a generation calling for something deeper than ping-pong tables and perks. They want leaders who listen, workplaces that reflect their values, and opportunities that align with their identity.
Here’s where both the article and our findings converge:
🔹 Self-Aware Leadership Matters Fast Company names self-awareness as the top trait Gen Z wants in leaders. Our research agrees. Gen Z in El Paso described a deep desire for transparent communication and emotionally attuned leaders. They’re not impressed by titles. They’re inspired by empathy.
🔹 Trust Over Control Forget micromanagement. Our respondents made it clear—they thrive under leaders who foster collaboration, not control. As one Gen Z participant told us: “I’ve had enough of micromanagement. I want someone who inspires, not just instructs.”
🔹 Shared Accountability Both studies emphasize the importance of co-creating culture. Gen Z isn’t just asking for change—they’re ready to build it with you. From DEI commitments to ethical practices, they expect to be part of the conversation. They’re asking: “Will you walk the talk, or just post about it?”
🔹 Cultural Values Shape Leadership Expectations Among Latino Gen Z respondents in El Paso, cultural frameworks like familismo and respect for community are not left at the office door. These values shape their career choices, expectations for leadership, and desire for companies to do more than just “diversity checkboxes.” They want to belong—to a mission, not just a job.
So what does all this mean for companies and cities seeking to engage Gen Z?
It means leadership must evolve—from command and control to connect and co-create.
At El Puente, we help organizations do exactly that—by weaving cultural awareness, leadership development, and real-time feedback into the DNA of how they attract and retain Latino and Gen Z talent.
This isn’t a “future of work” conversation. It’s a “now of leadership” one. And Gen Z is already showing us the way.
Want to read our full report? Reach out to us!
