Social Skills in Crisis: How Lockdown Left Us Struggling to Connect

You’re not imagining it - our social skills have eroded since the lockdown.

51% of Gen Z employees say that their education has not adequately prepared them for the professional world. The pandemic has further exacerbated this issue, limiting in-person opportunities for observing workplace norms and determining effective behavior within organisations.

However, it's not just Gen Z—our analysis reveals that everyone's social skills have eroded since 2020. Burnout, exhaustion, and career insecurity have taken a toll on performance, leaving no generation untouched by the challenges of our new shared professional environment. To tackle this issue, organisations must redefine professionalism for their entire workforce, rather than solely focusing on one generation.

Leaders must foster intentional connections among employees across geographic and generational boundaries. According to Gartner research, three key elements are crucial in creating these intentional interactions: employee choice and autonomy, a clear structure and purpose, and a sense of levity and fun.

For instance, allowing employees to express their connection preferences through assessments enables choice, such as opting for happy hours or lunch-and-learns. Establishing clear norms and organisational values, like determining which meetings require video participation, reduces confusion and empowers employees to participate more freely. Collaboratively defining norms for interaction and communication can also create a safer space for authentic connections to flourish.

Have you seen the erosion of social skills in your workplace – what was it?