Last Updated:
Zillennials typically refer to those born between 1997 and 2002 who exist on the cusp of Millennials (1981-1996) and Gen Z (2000-2012)
Zillennials: This micro-generation struggles to find their place in the workplace because their ideologies are shaped by both the ambitious nature of Millennials and the more balanced perspective of Gen Z
There are many debatable topics surrounding generational differences between Boomers, Millennials, Gen Z and Gen X. However, a lesser-known group is Zillennials. Though not precisely defined, zillennials typically refer to those born between 1997 and 2002 who exist on the cusp of Millennials (1981-1996) and Gen Z (2000-2012). This micro-generation struggles to find their place in the workplace because their ideologies are shaped by both the ambitious nature of Millennials and the more balanced perspective of Gen Z.
Content creator Samantha Hart recently shared her experience as a “cusper” in the workforce and highlighted the difficulties of being caught between these two generations. Her insights struck a chord with fellow zillennials with one commenting that their experience is “perfectionism meets procrastination.”
Zillennials who spoke with Business Insider shared similar feelings where they often find themselves caught between the choice of logging off on time and feeling like they are not achieving enough or putting in extra hours that they end up resenting.
Lauren Farina, a licensed psychotherapist and founding CEO of Invited Psychotherapy and Coaching, explained to Business Insider that Millennials often fall into what she calls a “high-performer archetype.” This mindset pushes individuals toward a feeling of doing things perfectly and the desire to please others. The drawbacks of this approach lead to risks like burnout or anxiety.
Farina also mentioned that zillennials may feel guilty or ashamed when trying to set boundaries like Gen Z as these boundaries can clash with their other values. With both approaches, zillennials struggle and it becomes difficult for them to balance their personal and professional lives.
While we are discussing zillennials, it is also important to know that both Millennials and Gen Z face their own challenges in the job market. Millennials entered the workforce during the Great Recession of 2008 and had to deal with high unemployment and low wages.
On the other hand, Gen Z may have an even tougher time. A Washington Post analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that they are heavily affected by rising living costs, expensive homeownership and growing credit card debt.
This leaves zillennials caught in the middle which leads to pressures from both generations as they try to build their own careers and lives.
However, what zillennials often view as struggles could actually be their strengths. Ilana Zivkovich, the CEO and founder of the organisational consulting firm Werq, told Business Insider that zillennials have a unique ability to connect with both older and younger colleagues which makes them valuable in the workplace.
“In essence, they’re workplace ninjas who can bridge generational gaps that might otherwise create barriers. By identifying who these people are and encouraging them to fully express their perspective and beliefs, we can then form the most holistic, the most connected, and the most future-ready workforce,” Zivkovich added.
