Guess That Slang
The term "Lit" refers to...
What is "extremely fun, exciting, and awesome"
"That concert was lit."
An intern attends every meeting, takes notes, and completes assignments on time, but rarely speaks up. What should a leader do:
A. Assume they're disengaged
B. Call them out during a meeting to encourage participation
C. Create opportunities for them to contribute in a comfortable setting
What is "C"
Not all engagement looks the same, some interns need a little encouragement and psychological safety before sharing ideas.
Gen Z prefers to work completely remotely
MYTH
Many want flexibility, not isolation. Since COVID19, being in and out of an office is normalized. Many prefer changes in scenery as well (e.g. working in an office one day, at home another)
Frequent Feedback or Annual Performance Reviews
What is "Frequent Feedback"
Gen Z tends to prefer regular feedback because it helps them learn and adjust in real time.
"BRB" is the abbreviation for...
"Going to lunch, BRB."
The term "Slay" refers to...
What is "performing exceptionally well, looking amazing"
"You slayed that presentation."
Your intern asks for feedback after nearly every project. What should a leader do:
A. Tell them they will go over it during their annual review
B. Provide brief feedback and coaching
C. Ignore the request
What is "B"
Frequent feedback helps interns grow and feel supported.
Gen Z would rather ask for information by message rather than by phone call
TRUTH
Gen Z tends to prefer messaging over phone calls because it's faster, less intrusive, and lets them respond on their own time. Texting also provides a written record and removes the pressure of real-time conversation.
Purpose/Growth or Comfort/Routine
What is "Purpose/Growth"
Many Gen Z employees are willing to take on challenge and work if they understand why it matters and how it contributes to a larger goal.
"IMO" is the abbreviation for...
"That project was easy IMO."
The term " No Cap" refers to...
What is "the opposite of a lying, telling only facts"
"UnitedHealth is the best company to work for, no cap."
An intern frequently asks why a process is done a certain way. What should a leader do:
A. Explain the reasoning, invite discussion
B. Tell them the process is in place for a reason
C. Tell them to ask their colleagues or do their own research
What is "A"
Curiosity often signals engagement and interest, not defiance.
If a Gen Z employee asks "why" a task needs to be done, they mean it disrespectfully.
MYTH
Many Gen Z employees are more engaged when they understand the purpose. Asking "why" is often about seeking context, not questioning authority.
Flexible Schedule or Strict 9-5
What is "flexible schedule"
Flexibility is often viewed at trust and autonomy rather than simply working less.
IRL is the abbreviation for...
What is "In Real Life"
The term "I'm Cooked" refers to...
What is "being in trouble, exhausted, or doomed"
"I forgot the presentation, I'm cooked."
An intern completes a project, but the result isn't as expected. What should a leader do:
A. Let them know they need to follow expectations more clearly next time
B. Clarify expectations, provide examples, and coach them through any gaps
C. Tell them to talk to their peers if they're confused about expectations
What is "B"
Many interns are navigating a corporate environment for the first time.
Gen Z values work life balance as much as salary when evaluating a job.
TRUTH
Flexibility and work life balance consistently ranks among Gen Zs top workplace priorities.
Manager Who Gives Answers or Manager Who Coaches
What is "Manager Who Coaches"
Many Gen Z employees value development and learning opportunities over simply being told what to do.
IYKYK is the abbreviation for...
What is "If you know you know"
The term "Delulu" refers to...
What is "being unrealistically optimistic, delusional"
"Emily thinks she's going to meet the CEO this summer, she's delulu."
Halfway through the internship, the intern is doing good work but hasn't had meaningful interactions with their managers or team leaders. What should a leader do:
A. Schedule regular check ins, provide visibility, create networking opportunities
B. Wait for the intern to reach out to them and show initiative
C. If they're already doing good work, it doesn't matter if they have a meaningful relationship with leaders
What is "A"
Connections, mentorship, and visibility are critical to engagement and development.
MYTH
Compensation matters but purpose, growth, recognition, and development opportunities are often just as important.
Higher Salary or Great Manager
What is "Great Manager"
Most want both, but research shows that manager quality strongly impacts engagement, retention, and growth.
FOMO is the abbreviation for...
What is "Fear of Missing Out"