ResumeTemplates.com report: 6 in 10 Managers Say Gen Z Needs Constant Praise, Even When They Fail

New survey reveals managers' challenges balancing recognition and feedback for Gen Z employees

SEATTLE, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new ResumeTemplates.com survey of 1,050 U.S. managers who directly supervise Gen Z employees finds that many managers believe this generation expects more recognition than previous ones — sometimes even when their performance falls short. Three in four managers say Gen Z workers need more praise than older employees, and six in 10 report that Gen Zers' performance improves when they receive it.

Gen Z seeks more recognition than previous generations

According to the survey, 76% of managers believe Gen Z employees need more praise than older workers. About 71% say Gen Z expects recognition for meeting basic expectations, and 58% report they want it even when they fail to meet goals.

Verbal praise is the most common approach, with 19% of managers giving it daily and 84% providing it at least weekly. Others use email (37%), recognition software (27%), shoutouts during meetings (23%), or Slack and similar tools (21%) several times a week. Nearly two-thirds of managers feel pressured to balance every critique with a positive comment.

"Effective managers know feedback works best when recognition and constructive input go together," says Julia Toothacre, Chief Career Strategist at ResumeTemplates.com. "The sandwich method is a simple way to do this by placing constructive feedback between two positives. This approach creates a healthier environment where employees can improve while still feeling valued."

Feedback can trigger strong reactions from Gen Z employees

Managers say giving feedback to Gen Z workers often comes with heightened tension and emotional responses. Thirty-eight percent report that employees have called out sick the day after receiving critical feedback, and 30% say Gen Z workers have cried in response.

Additionally, 27% of managers say Gen Z employees have quit after receiving negative feedback, 23% report workers have gone to HR, and 18% have been posted about online. About one in 10 managers have even heard from a Gen Z employee's parent after delivering criticism.

"Managers who withhold feedback to avoid conflict only hurt their teams in the long run," adds Toothacre. "Employees miss growth opportunities, team performance suffers, and trust in leadership erodes. If delivering feedback feels challenging, it's a signal managers need more training and support."

This survey was conducted via Pollfish in August 2025 on behalf of ResumeTemplates.com. The survey included 1,050 U.S. managers who directly manage Gen Z employees. Demographic and screening criteria ensured all respondents hold management-level positions and oversee Gen Z direct reports.

The full report is available here: https://www.resumetemplates.com/6-in-10-managers-say-gen-z-needs-constant-praise-especially-when-they-fail/ 

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SOURCE ResumeTemplates.com