News
November 16, 2025
Why I'm keeping an open mind about becoming a middle manager, even as many of my Gen Z peers aren't
Workers used to strive for managerial titles, but millennials and Gen Zers are now going out of their way to avoid them. Ms Nicole Chan, a Gen Z manager, asks: Is it time for a new definition of success?
## Why I'm keeping an open mind about becoming a middle manager, even as many of my Gen Z peers aren't
The traditional career ladder once had a clear top rung: management. For generations, climbing into a managerial role signified success, increased responsibility, and a bigger paycheck. But a growing trend reveals a shift in perspective, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly shying away from the very positions previous generations coveted. Is the allure of middle management fading, and if so, why?
For many young professionals, the answer lies in a re-evaluation of what truly constitutes success. The perception of middle management as a thankless job – burdened with bureaucracy, long hours, and the unenviable task of mediating between upper management and frontline employees – is a significant deterrent. Many prioritize work-life balance, creative fulfillment, and purpose-driven work over the perceived prestige of a managerial title.
However, not all Gen Zers are ready to write off the prospect of leading teams. Ms. Nicole Chan, a Gen Z manager, is urging her peers to reconsider their aversion and keep an open mind. She believes that the negative stereotypes surrounding middle management may be outdated and that there's an opportunity to redefine the role for the modern workplace.
"We can't simply dismiss management as a relic of the past," Chan argues. "Instead, we should be asking ourselves how we can reshape it to align with our values and create a more positive and productive work environment."
Chan suggests that a new definition of success is needed, one that moves beyond simply climbing the corporate ladder and focuses on empowering teams, fostering collaboration, and driving meaningful impact. She believes Gen Z, with their tech-savviness, adaptability, and commitment to social responsibility, are uniquely positioned to revitalize middle management and transform it into a force for positive change.
The question now is whether this generation can overcome the ingrained perceptions and reimagine middle management as a role that offers both professional growth and personal fulfillment. The future of leadership may depend on it.
The traditional career ladder once had a clear top rung: management. For generations, climbing into a managerial role signified success, increased responsibility, and a bigger paycheck. But a growing trend reveals a shift in perspective, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly shying away from the very positions previous generations coveted. Is the allure of middle management fading, and if so, why?
For many young professionals, the answer lies in a re-evaluation of what truly constitutes success. The perception of middle management as a thankless job – burdened with bureaucracy, long hours, and the unenviable task of mediating between upper management and frontline employees – is a significant deterrent. Many prioritize work-life balance, creative fulfillment, and purpose-driven work over the perceived prestige of a managerial title.
However, not all Gen Zers are ready to write off the prospect of leading teams. Ms. Nicole Chan, a Gen Z manager, is urging her peers to reconsider their aversion and keep an open mind. She believes that the negative stereotypes surrounding middle management may be outdated and that there's an opportunity to redefine the role for the modern workplace.
"We can't simply dismiss management as a relic of the past," Chan argues. "Instead, we should be asking ourselves how we can reshape it to align with our values and create a more positive and productive work environment."
Chan suggests that a new definition of success is needed, one that moves beyond simply climbing the corporate ladder and focuses on empowering teams, fostering collaboration, and driving meaningful impact. She believes Gen Z, with their tech-savviness, adaptability, and commitment to social responsibility, are uniquely positioned to revitalize middle management and transform it into a force for positive change.
The question now is whether this generation can overcome the ingrained perceptions and reimagine middle management as a role that offers both professional growth and personal fulfillment. The future of leadership may depend on it.
Category:
Politics