HP Executive Defends Gen Z Against 'Lazy' Label, Citing Strong Relationship-Building and AI Skills

George Brasher, Senior Vice President and Managing Director for North America at the technology giant HP, a company with a global workforce of approximately 55,000 employees and a market valuation of $27 billion, has publicly challenged prevailing negative stereotypes surrounding Generation Z in the workplace. Brasher contends that the notion of Gen Z lacking essential interpersonal skills and workplace etiquette is a misconception. He asserts that, contrary to these criticisms, individuals from this generation within his team exhibit a remarkable capacity for active listening, a crucial element in building trust and fostering strong professional relationships. Furthermore, he observes their adeptness at truly understanding customer needs, a skill he finds to be prevalent and impactful.

Brasher's perspective is rooted in his direct experience managing a significant number of Gen Z employees. He emphasizes that these younger professionals are not only meeting but exceeding expectations, driving substantial business achievements through their dedication and work ethic. HP, as an organization, views Gen Z as a driving force in cultivating a more interconnected, inclusive, and conscientious global society. Their inherent technological savviness, honed by growing up in the digital age, is seen as a catalyst for innovation. This digital-first mindset translates into effective collaboration and community building within the company. Moreover, Brasher highlights that Gen Z, along with millennials, demonstrates the highest engagement with and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies. This fluency, which he terms being "AI natives," is not merely about technical proficiency but also about developing a healthier and more balanced relationship with work.

This advanced technological aptitude, particularly in AI, is presented as a significant advantage in the contemporary job market. Brasher explains that this familiarity positions Gen Z exceptionally well, especially in the competitive entry-level job sector. The increasing demand for AI-related skills in the U.S. job market, as evidenced by a 2026 PwC analysis, underscores the relevance of Brasher's observations. This analysis revealed that over one million U.S. job postings required AI-related skills as of the previous year, marking a substantial 66% increase from 2024. This trend indicates that the digital and AI fluency that Brasher attributes to Gen Z is a highly valued and sought-after competency, directly contributing to their success and the company's progress.