5 Tips from ‘The Intern’ That Every Gen Z Professional Can Benefit From

As Gen Z professionals are set to make up a significant 27 percent of the global workforce by 2025, workplaces are undergoing a profound demographic transformation. The movie “The Intern,” starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, provides a comedic yet insightful depiction of the intergenerational dynamics between Baby Boomers and Gen Z in professional settings.

The clash between these vastly different generations has left both employers and employees pondering how to effectively relate to one another, sparking important conversations about motivation, engagement, and interpersonal relations.

Here are five key takeaways that will undoubtedly convince you to add “The Intern” to your watchlist!

1. Be Open to Learning… and Teaching

Just as Jules, the CEO in “The Intern,” gains wisdom from her older intern, Gen Z professionals can tap into the wealth of experience Boomers offer. Remember, it’s a two-way street! While Boomers may not be up to date on the latest social media trends, their decades of experience hold invaluable lessons. Be open to learning from them, but also share your knowledge of current technology and trends.

2. Professionalism Knows No Age

Follow Ben Whittaker’s example and demonstrate unwavering professionalism and work ethic, irrespective of age. Despite being older than his colleagues, Ben sets a standard of excellence through his dedication, attention to detail, and positive attitude. Approaching work with enthusiasm and a can-do spirit earns respect regardless of generational differences.

3. Prioritize Face-to-Face Interaction

In an era dominated by digital communication, recognize the significance of traditional face-to-face interaction, particularly for Boomers. While Gen Z may prefer digital means like texting or emailing, Boomers often value in-person meetings or phone calls. Take the initiative to arrange coffee meetings or schedule face-to-face discussions—personal connections are key.

4. Lead with Authenticity

Ben’s leadership style is rooted in authenticity and empathy. Instead of relying on authority or titles, he connects with his colleagues on a personal level, earning their respect and admiration. His approach underscores the power of leading with heart, showing that genuine connections and understanding can be more impactful than traditional hierarchical leadership.

5. Work-Life Integration, Not Just Balance

For 77% of Gen Z, achieving work-life balance isn’t just a goal—it’s a non-negotiable priority². “The Intern” advocates for balancing professional responsibilities with personal passions. Strive for harmony between career aspirations and personal pursuits, making time for self-care, hobbies, and meaningful relationships outside of work.

The lessons from “The Intern” extend beyond the silver screen—they are applicable to real-life workplaces. Whether you belong to the Baby Boomer generation, Gen Z, or fall somewhere in between, let’s apply these lessons to foster better connections, work more efficiently, and cultivate inclusive workplaces where everyone can flourish. And if you haven’t watched “The Intern” yet, now’s the perfect time to grab some popcorn and press play—it’s not just a movie; it’s a guide to success in today’s professional landscape!

Sources

1. https://www.forbes.com/sites/onemind/2022/07/22/the-future-of-work-depends-on-supporting-gen-z/?sh=f381609447af
2. https://www.qureos.com/hiring-guide/gen-z-statistics#:~:text=Top%20Generation%20Z%20Statistics%20For%20Employers%20in%202024,-Before%20we%20dive&text=77%25%20of%20Generation%20Z%20prioritize,of%20the%20workforce%20by%202025.