Generation-on-generation hate is nothing new. But after years of getting to poke fun at the millennial pause, avocado obsessions, and devotion to no-show socks, Gen Z has finally arrived at the point where they’re the ones in the hot seat. As a Gen Zer, I have to admit it was incredibly entertaining to lightly mock the other generations. I mean, can you blame us when Gen Alpha is out here saying “skibidi toilet rizz” in everyday conversation? I thought we waved the generational white flag a few months ago when we finally admitted millennials weren’t that cringe, but it seems we’re butting heads again thanks to the latest Gen Z critique: the Gen Z stare.
In the same vein as RBF or zoning out, the Gen Z stare refers to the blank-faced response people often receive from Gen Z when trying to initiate conversation, especially in the workplace. Instead of a “how are you,” “thank you,” or “have a nice day,” TikTok is exploding with people sharing their attempts at small talk with people in service or client-facing roles, only to be met with a wide-eyed gaze and a blank expression. Ironically, the original video that kicked off the conversation was supposed to highlight how service workers handle difficult customers, using a poker face instead of catering to their every whim or snapping at them. But the internet ran with it, reframing the behavior as a physical manifestation of Gen Z’s supposed lack of social skills and laziness in the workplace.
Now, don’t get me wrong. After years of acting like the superior generation and clowning on everyone older and younger than us, we can handle a TikTok trend or two roasting us in return. But the way the Gen Z stare has taken off, honestly, kind of misses the mark. It echoes the same tired takes we saw years ago, when millennials were labeled the generation of participation trophies and handouts, accused of not wanting to apply themselves. I get the urge to retaliate now that the tables have turned, but pretending Gen Z’s workplace struggles boil down to a total inability to behave like normal people is just kind of… dumb.
First of all, let’s address the social awkwardness of someone attempting polite small talk and being met with a silent stare. Personally, I’ve never experienced this (though I guess it’s possible I am the perpetual starer and just haven’t realized), but let’s assume it’s real. It’s not that hard to believe—according to Newsweek, Gen Z is the loneliest generation at work, often lacking mentorship from older coworkers and missing out on past office norms like post-work drinks or organic friendships. The result of this post-pandemic work life could definitely impact in-person communication. When your workday consists of staring at a screen or completing tasks in isolation, social skills can get rusty. Sure, that delay might lead to awkward lulls or come across as rude, but if, as TikTok claims, a vast portion of adults aged 18-28 are doing this, maybe it’s not a generational defect. Perhaps it’s worth considering the role the workplace itself plays in this dynamic.
“The reality is that the workforce Gen Z is entering is vastly different from the one previous generations knew, so our coping mechanisms might look different, too.”
Another big part of the Gen Z stare discourse is the insinuation that Gen Z just isn’t good at their jobs or doesn’t care enough to put in the effort for basic small talk. But according to AP News, recent college grads are entering one of the toughest job markets in over a decade. Unemployment rates for new grads are higher than the national average, and in the face of economic uncertainty and tariffs, companies just aren’t hiring. The idea that Gen Z is breezing through their jobs with zero effort conveniently overlooks the reality of the current labor market. Who wants to risk their job and dive into the job search just because they don’t want to say hi to someone? With the market as difficult as it is, people aren’t quitting jobs, even in toxic environments, because another paycheck isn’t guaranteed. If you’re on the receiving end of a Gen Z stare, it might be because someone is running on fumes after a long shift (infinite workdays are the new norm), dealing with a terrible boss, or just coping the best way they know how.
So, whether the Gen Z stare is a reaction to rude customers, an unintentional blank-out, or the result of becoming phone-addicted robots incapable of casual convo, I say: let them stare. The reality is that the workforce Gen Z is entering is vastly different from the one previous generations knew, so our coping mechanisms might look different, too. If this is the worst thing we’re doing as a generation (and let’s be honest, I’m sure there’s more coming), we’re not in that bad of a spot. And if the Gen Z stare truly enrages you, maybe direct that energy toward the toxic workplace cultures that might be causing it. Or just make a TikTok—whatever floats your boat. God knows you’re owed a few roasting us.
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.
