The move from college to work has always been challenging, but Gen Z appears to be finding it especially difficult.
Many young professionals are digitally skilled, yet employers say they often struggle with communication, workplace etiquette and professional behaviour.
One reason is the pandemic. Many Gen Z workers spent important school and college years online, missing out on face-to-face interaction, internships and other experiences that build workplace confidence.
At the same time, companies are offering less training and mentorship, while expecting fresh graduates to become productive quickly.
AI is adding another layer of pressure. As routine entry-level work gets automated, employers increasingly want graduates who can communicate well, solve problems, work in teams and adapt fast.
This has created a difficult situation: Gen Z is being criticised for lacking workplace readiness, even as companies provide fewer opportunities to learn those very skills.
They may be the most digitally fluent generation yet, but entering professional life is proving far from easy.
