Chances are, if you frequent social media platforms like TikTok or were served by a Gen Zer recently, you're already well aware of this expression: the wide, blank stare that Gen Z kids seem to give when posed with a question they're not sure how to answer. Sometimes it's boredom, sometimes it's confusion, sometimes it's exasperation, sometimes it's annoyance—but honestly, you probably haven't been able to pinpoint just what this expression means. Don't worry; you're not alone, and you're certainly not the only victim of this so-called stare.
What Is the "Gen Z Stare"?
So, what is the "Gen Z stare"? Commonly described as a blank, zombie-like look, this expression often appears in situations where some people (such as older generations) may expect a verbal response or explanation. It's often unclear what the stare means from the get-go. As we've mentioned, it could mean anything from "I'm bored" to "I don't want to answer that, go find out yourself." You can probably see why victims of the stare might feel offended or judged.
But before you grumble over getting the deadpan stare, just know that Gen Zers aren't the only ones doing it. Gen Xers might sometimes stare blankly at someone, too—even when they're just silently wiggling a tooth, or trying to piece together what the heck you said to them because their hearing isn't the best.
Workplace Stress
Oftentimes, the Gen Z stare happens at the workplace. After all, there has been a growing agreement that Gen Z kids are difficult to manage and collaborate with, and aren't as hardworking, resilient, or committed as other generations. A 2023 survey that involved over 1,300 managers proved this correct: 74% of managers felt that Gen Zers were the hardest to work with. A whopping 65% of managers even responded that they more commonly needed to fire Gen Z employees than those from any other generation.
For the Gen Zers, there's an argument: unlike previous generations, they're more likely to prioritize their own comfort than put their jobs first. This means a workplace with a not-so-great culture and work-life balance is going to get negative brownie points, and they're much more willing to quit than hold out. Why pretend to like something you don't actually like doing? Perhaps it's this reason that Gen Zers are much more blunt with their responses—and their expressions.
It's Not Just Boredom
The deadpan stare that Gen Z kids are now known for might not always be a look of boredom or annoyance, though. As we mentioned above, it may just be their way of rejecting performative positivity, something that Millennials and other generations might be more known for, especially in customer service settings. In other words, it's Gen Z's way of staying authentic to themselves and to others.
The COVID-19 pandemic also brought on changes to our everyday lives, and Gen Zers might have had to rewire the way they normally converse with others, given the lack of face-to-face interactions. This might explain why they do the blank stare during online meetings, or in other situations where they're supposed to engage in small talk. It's almost like a "freeze" reaction, like they're a deer caught in headlights.
The next time you're given the Gen Z stare, just remember: it's probably not personal. You're better off letting them stare than trying to pick it apart.
