What do you consider a good first impression? A firm handshake and saying, “Nice to meet you,” or maybe an insightful conversation avoiding talk about how the weather’s been lately? When I approach industry professionals to network at meetings and events, I stick out my right hand, smile and introduce myself confidently. I know that, in most cases, this face-to-face interaction will be the first impression I make with every new person I meet.
There’s a mystery to Gen Z that I think even we as members of the generation can’t quite figure out for ourselves. We are self-driven, fiercely independent and full of ambition at least on the inside, and for the most part, we’re aware of all our good. Sometimes, it feels like the world isn't. Unfortunately, what other generations tend to see when looking at Gen Z is a rare glimpse of our independence behind the curtains of sensitivity, authenticity and vulnerability that never seem to open to reveal the strength of the population behind them.