Coaching & Mentoring Gen Z: How Can We Flip the Script to Lead Better?

I recently attended a conference in Wellington with New Zealand Rugby to discuss current issues and key challenges in today's coaching at the elite level. Alongside my colleague Matt Spangher, we had the opportunity to present to coaches from Super Rugby, A-League, and New Zealand Hockey on the topic of coaching Gen Z athletes. What was a significant revelation for us all was the realisation that today’s coaches, "US", were once viewed similarly to how we currently perceive younger generations when we were considered young — we were the "Gen Z" of our time.

Who Is Generation Z?

Gen Z, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, with a postive lens, they are known for being socially conscious, tech-savvy, data-driven, adaptive, and self-aware.

Ironically, that's how we were viewed, myself a Millennial, which I remember being viewed as different to 'what we are used to', by those generations before us. For me, this perspective shift makes it clear that, with the right approach, like the generation before me, we can turn Gen Z’s unique qualities into strengths.

 

Understanding the Generation Gap

While Gen Z brings valuable attributes, they also pose unique leadership challenges. Through research and personal reflections, we identified five key characteristics that influence how we can work with Gen Z in sports, workplaces, and communities:

1. Attention Span and Focus

Gen Z’s digital upbringing means they thrive on quick content and fast feedback.

What's worked: Engage them with shorter, dynamic projects to sustain interest.

2. Expectation for Immediate Results 

Accustomed to instant results, Gen Z may struggle with delayed gratification.

What's worked: Guide them with clear, incremental milestones to instil patience and long-term vision.

3. Influence of Social Media

Social media often drives Gen Z toward external validation.

What's worked: Encourage intrinsic motivation by emphasising personal growth over public approval.

4. Face-to-Face Communication Skills 

Gen Z’s digital habits can mean fewer face-to-face interactions.

What's worked: Promote confidence and teamwork through structured in-person opportunities.

5. Mental Health Awareness

Gen Z is vocal about mental health but also reports higher stress.

What's worked: Foster a supportive culture that prioritizes mental well-being and provides stress management resources.

Strategies to Lead and Engage Generation Z

Drawing from coaching and mentoring experience, here are effective strategies:

• Keep Engagement High with Diverse Tasks - Adaptability is Gen Z's greatest strength.

Tip: Offer a mix of assignments and short, high-impact projects for sustained focus and motivation.

• Set Small, Achievable Goals - Gen Z values structure and quick wins.

Tip: Break down goals into manageable steps to boost confidence and track progress while still attacking the end game.

• Use identity labels to catagorise accepted behaviours and tasks - Acronyms are used for everything these days, LOL.

Tip: Creating labels for regular tasks. This will save time and effort explaining the process. Give it a try, think outside the box, you will be surprised.

• Encourage Authentic Communication - Prioritise face-to-face engagement for stronger relationships and collaboration.

Tip: Incorporate group discussions and 1-on-1 interactions to build rapport.

• Be Transparent and Honest with Feedback  - Gen Z values constructive feedback and authenticity.

Tip: Deliver clear, genuine insights to build trust and show commitment to their growth.

• Support Mental Health Openly - Make mental well-being a team priority.

Tip: Introduce mindfulness and stress-management tools to create a culture that embraces mental health.

• Balance Individual Needs with Team Goals - Respect individuality while aligning with team objectives.

Tip: Personalise development plans to help feel valued within the team structure.

Turning Generational Differences into Strengths

Leading Gen Z calls for a blend of traditional values and modern adaptability. By recognising the rapid pace of today’s society, leaders can foster resilience, collaboration, and adaptability in the new generation, turning generational gaps into opportunities for growth and shared success.

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