Strange World: Teaching Generation Z to Chat on the Phone

Some members of Generation Z are being trained in telephone conversation.

A “comprehensive learning and development program” for its “digital generation” employees is part of the accounting firm Forvis Mazars’ “major firm-wide” investment strategy.

For those born between 1997 and 2012 who are hesitant to pick up their smartphone and make a phone call, the “immersive” project aims to improve employability skills by exposing their staff to difficult situations.

The Telegraph quoted James Gilbey, the UK CEO of Forvis Mazars, as saying: “We’ve committed to a major firm-wide investment to put relationship skills front and center.”

The assistance the organization is offering comes in response to growing concerns that Gen Zers entering the workforce tend to communicate via text or email since they lack the necessary skills to converse with people on the phone.

MailOnline quotes Victoria Bari, the head of training at Berry Recruitment Group, as saying: “There is definitely a generational divide and emails and messaging are the first route of communication for younger, more inexperienced consultants.”

“However, the most efficient way to establish relationships—a crucial component of sales—is still talking to people.”