Mumbai Investor’s Viral Post Sheds Light on Gen Z’s Direct Approach

A Mumbai-based investor, Siddharth Shah, recently shared a screenshot of a leave request from one of his Gen Z associates, sparking amusement and admiration across social media

A Mumbai-based investor, Siddharth Shah, recently shared a screenshot of a leave request from one of his Gen Z associates, sparking amusement and admiration across social media. The email was concise, reading simply: “Hi Siddharth, I will be on leave on 8th Nov 2024. Bye.” Shah, who posted the screenshot on his account, captioned it, “How my Gen Z team gets its leaves approved,” confirming that the leave was indeed granted. The straightforward note diverged from conventional, more formal leave requests, showcasing a refreshing and candid approach that resonated with many online. In response to comments, Shah clarified that while Gen Z is often stereotyped as challenging to manage, his experiences have been positive. He reflected on his team’s dedication and said, “At 20-21, I was doing nothing. Today, at 32, I’ve worked with at least 7-8 Gen Zs in the last 2-3 years who have made me very proud.”

Shah emphasized that his approach as a manager focuses more on rapport than formality. When asked why managers should request details for time off, Shah responded humorously, “I don’t ask as a manager. I ask because I love to gossip.” This lighthearted yet supportive managerial style has earned him praise, with many applauding his ability to embrace Gen Z’s authenticity. Another example of positive leadership was recently highlighted when a woman in New Delhi garnered praise for crafting thoughtful rejection letters and offering encouragement and support to candidates who were not selected. These instances underscore a shift towards more empathetic, understanding workplaces where directness and support coexist, highlighting the importance of effective leadership in fostering a positive work culture.