Authors: Tallo Interns | Editor: Arnell Turk & Kae Burdo
Every new generation inevitably sparks a flurry of conversation, and, let’s be honest, a lot of assumptions. As Gen Z increasingly settles into the workforce and Gen Alpha starts getting ready to join them, we hear plenty of stereotypes — about their entitlement, work ethic, and career desires. Gen Alpha hasn’t started working yet and they already have work stereotypes! But how much of that is FACT, and how much is just plain “CAP“? This article is here to dig into those common myths and shed some light on what’s really going on with these generations in the workplace.
#1 FACTS or CAP: “They Just Don’t Want to Work!”
Author: Shederick Whipple
CAP: Gen Z is often labeled as a generation that avoids work altogether. Society has painted them lazy, quick to quit, and unable to handle structure or pressure. Commentators like Jordan McGillis argue Gen Z has been “coddled” through college and COVID, emerging into the workforce unprepared and unwilling to put in the effort needed to succeed.
FACT: This narrative ignores the reality that Gen Z is not uninterested in work — they’re uninterested in outdated, unhealthy work cultures. The truth is, they want to work — they just want work to be worth doing.
These generations seek purpose, learning, and well-being in their careers. A 2025 survey by Deloitte show only 6% of Gen Z prioritize leadership roles, not from a lack of ambition, but because they value growth, balance, and mental health. Also, according to Seramount, 40% feel inspired within their job positions, matching other generations. While many plan to change jobs, it is for growth, not to avoid work.
#2 FACTS or CAP: “They Are So Entitled!”
Author: Ammara Hussain
CAP: Gen Z and Gen Alpha are often dismissed as “entitled” — expecting too much, unwilling to work hard, and demanding more than they deserve. This narrative paints them as lazy, disrespectful, and lacking the grit of previous generations.
FACT: This viewpoint is not only inaccurate but actively harmful, as it dismisses legitimate concerns about workplace conditions and perpetuates outdated notions of what constitutes “hard work.” The reality is that Gen Z is not entitled, they are empowered and informed. According to Pew Research Center, generational labels are often misleading, obscuring the complexities of individual experiences. Plus, as Hannah Jewell argues in The Guardian, Gen Z’s so called “entitlement” is a refusal to endure poor treatment and exploitation. They are not afraid to set boundaries, demand fair play, and challenge toxic work environments — behaviors that should be praised, not criticized. By advocating for better conditions and refusing to tolerate abuse, they are not only improving their own lives but also paving the way for an equitable and sustainable workforce for everyone.
#3 FACTS or CAP: “All Gen Z Want To Become Influencers”
Author: Eron Butler
CAP: Gen Z and Gen Alpha are frequently stereotyped as a generation obsessed with social media fame, with critics claiming they all want to become influencers rather than pursue traditional careers. The narrative suggests they’re allergic to “real work” and would rather get paid to be on their phones all day than commit to a traditional 9-to-5 job.
FACT: While it’s true that influencer culture appeals to many young people, the reality is far more complex than the stereotype suggests. A Morning Consult survey found that 57% of Gen Z want to be influencers — but here’s the catch: only 53% of them actually believe it’s a viable career path. This shows they’re not delusional about the challenges of building a sustainable career in content creation.
For Gen Alpha, the numbers tell a different story entirely. According to India Today, only 37% of Gen Alpha wants to become influencers, debunking the idea that every young person is chasing social media stardom. The truth is that while some members of these generations are drawn to digital entrepreneurship and content creation, many others are pursuing traditional careers in healthcare, education, technology, and other fields.
Rather than dismissing their interest in digital careers as frivolous, we should recognize that these generations understand something important: the economy is increasingly digital, and building an online presence can be a legitimate business skill. Their comfort with digital platforms and understanding of online audiences will be valuable assets in almost any career path they choose.
#4 FACTS or CAP: “Gen Alpha Will Be Even Worse!”
Author: Rithik Samanthula
CAP: You have probably heard it: “They’ll be lazier than Gen Z,” or “All they’ll care about are screens and followers.” Even though Gen Alpha is still in school, years away from joining the workforce, the “hot takes” are already flying.
FACT: These narratives unfairly jump the gun, projecting anxieties about technology and modern parenting onto a generation. What we do know is Gen Alpha is the most tech-integrated generation ever. They’ve grown up with AI and smart devices since day one. In fact, GWI reports that they’re the first generation to experience AI and smart devices since birth, making them incredibly agile. Their comfort with new technologies will be a huge asset to our digital economy. McCrindle Research suggests they’ll be the “most formally educated, technologically supplied, and materially endowed.” They’re also described as “social, global, and mobile.” Their desire for work-life balance and inclusion aren’t weaknesses — they’re evolving priorities. Let’s recognize the unique value they will bring to the table instead of labeling them “doomed.” We should be able to prepare for the future by recognizing that each generation brings something new and necessary to the table.
Now Let’s Stop the Clichés
It’s clear that many stereotypes about Gen Z and Gen Alpha are more “cap” than fact. While some paint them as lazy, entitled, or solely focused on social media fame, the truth is far more nuanced. These generations aren’t avoiding work — they’re simply seeking purpose, well-being, and fair treatment in environments that value their contributions. Their deep integration with technology makes them incredibly agile and innovative, ready to leverage digital tools for a rapidly evolving economy. Instead of clinging to outdated assumptions, we must recognize their unique strengths and adapt to their evolving priorities, embracing the valuable perspectives they bring to the future workforce.
