Taking the Scary Out of Management Titles
April 2025 Edition
Do you ever cringe watching people making balloon animals—the squeaking, the loud pop, and the whoosh of air escaping that could happen at a moment's notice?
That’s how some people feel about the term ‘management.’
In fact, Gen Z is speaking up—52% of them are saying ‘heck no’ to being middle managers, turning away from traditional people management paths at record rates.
So, why the hesitation? It’s a mix of factors:
The rise of non-traditional careers. The 9-to-5 grind isn’t the only way to succeed anymore. From freelancing to content creation, people are crafting careers that align with their values, interests, and lifestyles.
A PR problem for management. Millennials and Gen X have made it loud and clear—management often means stress, burnout, and bureaucracy. The old-school playbook of endless meetings, office politics, and overwork isn’t exactly inspiring.
Corporate distrust. Many Gen Z professionals watched layoffs wipe out entire teams while they were just entering the job market. Seeing leadership positions cut just as quickly as junior roles has made them question the traditional path to the top.
The Shift: Leadership Without the Title
But here’s the thing—Gen Z isn’t rejecting leadership.
They’re rejecting outdated, rigid systems that no longer serve them. They want impact, influence, and autonomy—without the red tape.
This shift is forcing companies to rethink how they develop leaders. Titles alone won’t attract or retain top talent anymore.
Instead, organizations need to:
Redefine leadership. Leadership isn’t just about direct reports—it’s about ownership, influence, and driving change.
Offer flexibility. Leadership roles that support creativity, adaptability, and autonomy are far more attractive than ones bound by endless rules.
Prioritize well-being. Gen Z values mental health, balance, and purpose over a fancy job title. Companies that recognize this will win.
So, if ‘management’ feels as nerve-wracking as twisting a balloon animal, maybe it’s time for a rebrand. Because the future of leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about impact.