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What Is 'Gen Z Stare'? The Latest Workplace Trend With Blank Looks

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27th July, 2025 20:01 IST

A new trend dubbed the “Gen Z stare” is stirring both laughter and confusion across social media and corporate environments. This blank, long, and emotionless gaze-frequently seen in response to casual greetings or workplace instructions, has gone viral on TikTok, prompting memes, reactions, and deeper reflections about generational communication styles.

The expression that's breaking the internet-and boardrooms

Often perceived as a cold or distant reaction, the Gen Z stare has been interpreted by many older workers as a sign of boredom, aloofness, or even passive aggression. From TikTok to office kitchens, this vacant expression is becoming a cultural flashpoint, confusing managers and amusing peers.

However, experts caution against rushing to judgment. Some young people defend the expression, arguing it’s simply part of how they interact today-especially in customer service roles or high-stress social situations.

Gen Z recognises it too

Interestingly, even Gen Zers are calling each other out. Brad Mielke, host of ABC’s Start Here podcast, noted that this trend is one of the rare moments where Gen Z seems to be collectively self-aware. “Even Gen Z workers are starting to observe it in their peers,” he said, suggesting a moment of reflection for a generation often seen as ultra-digital and performative.

Is it just a look- or a sign of something deeper?

In an article for Forbes, workplace culture expert Bryan Robinson emphasises that the stare might signify more than facial disengagement. He cites Joe Galvin, Chief Research Officer at Vintage, who compares this behavior to other generational workplace trends like “quiet quitting.”

According to Galvin, the Gen Z stare reveals a widening communication gap between younger employees and traditional leadership. Misinterpreting this blank expression as laziness or disrespect could be missing the real picture.

Pandemic effects and the 'Freeze' response

Some psychologists argue that the emotionless stare may relate to stress or social anxiety, especially in those who came of age during the pandemic and lacked face-to-face interaction. This reaction, they say, may be closer to a trauma-based “freeze” response rather than an act of rebellion or indifference.

As many Gen Z workers spent critical social years interacting through screens, their nonverbal cues may differ significantly from those of their older colleagues.

Rethinking what engagement looks like

With body language under the microscope, experts are urging employers and team leaders to reassess what engagement and professionalism look like in 2025. Galvin poses a vital question: “Are these workers truly disengaged, or are we judging them by outdated standards?”

Failure to understand generational cues could lead to miscommunication, lowered morale, and missed chances to foster genuine connection in increasingly diverse workplaces.

Not the first and won’t be the last generational quirk

Just like Millennials were once mocked for the infamous “pause” before speaking in videos, or Baby Boomers for signing off texts with “Best regards,” the Gen Z stare is now the latest lightning rod in the evolution of intergenerational workplace norms.

As Brad Mielke puts it, “Every generation has its thing—this time, it’s Gen Z’s turn under the spotlight.”

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