Gen Z employees are instructed to 'be professionally mean' on TikTok

[UNITED STATES] A growing number of Gen Z professionals are turning to TikTok for career advice, with some influencers promoting the concept of being "professionally mean" in the workplace. This trend involves assertively setting boundaries and managing workplace relationships to prioritize personal well-being and career advancement.

The Rise of 'Professional Meanness'

On TikTok, career advisors and influencers are introducing Gen Z workers to unconventional workplace strategies, including "professional meanness." This approach encourages employees to assertively communicate their needs and boundaries, challenging traditional notions of workplace politeness. Proponents argue that adopting such behaviors can lead to better work-life balance and career progression.

The trend has resonated with a generation known for prioritizing mental health and rejecting outdated corporate norms. According to a 2024 Deloitte Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey, over 60% of Gen Z respondents reported that maintaining mental well-being was a top priority, even over salary and job security. As a result, strategies that promote self-advocacy and assertiveness have gained significant traction among young professionals seeking to avoid burnout and toxic environments.

Content creators like @CorporateNatalie and @WorkBestieWithErin, who share advice with hundreds of thousands of followers, have popularized these strategies by demonstrating how to respond to overbearing managers, unrealistic deadlines, or inappropriate coworker behavior. Their skits and tutorials often walk a fine line between humor and practical guidance, giving younger workers both validation and actionable tactics.

One related concept gaining traction is "managing up," which involves influencing one's boss to support personal career goals. A Business Insider article explains that "managing up" is a workplace strategy defined as "managing the relationship that you have with your boss" to optimize job satisfaction and performance. While some TikTok users find this tactic effective, others view it as indicative of a toxic work environment.

Some corporate leaders, however, express concern that these social media-driven strategies might erode traditional respect for hierarchy and collaboration. Human resources professionals warn that while managing up can be beneficial, it must be practiced with mutual respect to avoid perceptions of manipulation or insubordination. In structured corporate settings, excessive assertiveness may clash with established communication norms, leading to unintended consequences.

Potential Risks and Rewards

While these TikTok-endorsed strategies offer Gen Z workers tools to navigate complex workplace dynamics, experts caution about potential risks. Behaviors perceived as "professionally mean" could lead to strained relationships with colleagues and supervisors. Additionally, tactics like "white-fonting"—embedding invisible text in resumes to bypass automated filters—have faced criticism for their ethical implications.

Workplace consultants advise that employees understand the difference between assertiveness and aggression. According to leadership coach Dr. Tina Opie, “Being professionally mean should never cross the line into incivility or exclusion. The goal should be to establish respectful boundaries, not create friction.” Training programs focusing on emotional intelligence and effective communication are increasingly being recommended to younger workers navigating these dynamics.

Balancing Authenticity and Professionalism

The trend also highlights a broader shift in workplace culture, with Gen Z advocating for authenticity and transparency. However, experts warn that balancing genuine self-expression with professional decorum is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and maintain a positive work environment.

As Gen Z continues to reshape workplace norms, strategies like "professional meanness" and "managing up" reflect a desire for greater control and authenticity in their careers. While these approaches can offer benefits, it's essential to navigate them thoughtfully to foster constructive professional relationships and uphold ethical standards.