Editor’s Note: Struggling with communication breakdowns in your team? The challenge might not be what you think. As hybrid work reshapes the workplace, soft skills—those intangible abilities like empathy, communication, and collaboration—are becoming more critical than ever. In Episode 8 of Design Nerds Anonymous, “Generation Gap: Rethinking Soft Skills in the Hybrid Workplace,” Amanda Schneider sits down with Kendra Johnson, founder of The Venn Group and a leading expert on soft skills. Together, they tackle the myths surrounding generational divides and explore actionable ways to build more cohesive, collaborative teams. We’ll be sharing abbreviated highlights here, exclusively for officeinsight readers.
The Big Idea: Connection is the New Skill Set
It’s easy to think about GenZ lacking soft skills, but the truth is, as we evolve into the uncharted territory of this hybrid world, the rules are being rewritten. We ALL need a refresh on what communication can and should look like in this increasingly digital world.
Soft skills are no longer optional — they’re essential for bridging differences in working styles, generations, and team dynamics. As Kendra Johnson notes, fostering self-awareness and effective communication can transform how teams collaborate, lead, and innovate. Here are three key takeaways from this episode that you can leverage to help you succeed:
Rethink Generational Stereotypes: “We miss the mark when we assume resistance or defiance,” explained Kendra Johnson. “What we’re really seeing are differences in expectations and working styles.” Gen Z, for example, prioritizes purpose and fulfillment, often challenging traditional norms to set healthier boundaries. Leaders who recognize and respect these differences can create more inclusive and productive environments.
Focus on Self-Awareness: Kendra emphasizes that developing soft skills starts with understanding ourselves: “Self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership. When you know how you come across and how others perceive you, you can better navigate interactions and foster alignment.” Training mid-level managers—those who manage up and down—is particularly impactful, as they influence every layer of the organization.
Build a Culture of Communication: ”It’s not about flashy tools,” said Kendra. “It’s about what we say to one another and how we align.” She advises teams to intentionally cultivate communication practices that bridge gaps between individuals and generations. This can include structured feedback, clear expectations, and intentional team-building activities that encourage dialogue.
Closing the Gap: The Power of Intentionality
Soft skills might sound intangible, but their impact is anything but. In today’s hybrid workplace, where misunderstandings can easily snowball into larger issues, fostering connection and self-awareness has never been more critical. Kendra’s insights remind us that while generations may differ in their approaches, the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively is a universal need. By addressing these challenges head-on, organizations can not only reduce friction but also unlock new levels of creativity, innovation, and employee satisfaction.
If this interests you, dive deeper into these findings by listening to episode 8 of season 6 of Design Nerds Anonymous, “Generation Gap: Rethinking Soft Skills in the Hybrid Workplace,” for more actionable insights from Kendra Johnson and if you would like to be included in ThinkLab’s next research study, join ThinkLab’s research community to share your perspective and help shape future insights. Sign up here to contribute your expertise and stay connected.