Why Gen Z is getting fired after being hired

Why Gen Z is getting fired after being hired

From The Excerpt by USA TODAY

May 6, 2026 · 15 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the challenges Gen Z faces in the job market, including communication and professionalism issues that lead to early terminations.

Gen Z workers are entering the job market , and in some cases, getting fired just as quickly. A recent survey found that many employers say they’ve let Gen Z hires go within months of their hire, citing gaps in communication, professionalism and expectations. But is this really a problem with young workers—or is it something deeper? NYU professor Suzy Welch breaks down what she sees as a fundamental mismatch between what employers want and what Gen Z values. She also explains how AI, remote work and a shifting job market are making it harder for early-career workers to find their footing. Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to  podcasts@usatoday.com .  Episode transcript  available here .  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

People in this episode

Host: USA TODAY

Guest: Suzy Welch

Topics covered

  • Gen Z
  • employment
  • workplace expectations
  • communication
  • professionalism
  • AI
  • remote work

Keywords

  • Gen Z
  • job market
  • fired
  • communication
  • professionalism
  • AI
  • remote work
  • employment expectations

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NYU

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