Workplace revolution

From TikTok To The Boardroom… Say Hello To Gen Z Professionals

Advika Singh, AIS VKC Lko, Alumna

The Gen Z have already infiltrated the workforce, but is the professional world truly ready for them? Buckle up, Millennials, for the ‘digital natives’ are here to redefine professionalism – one Snapchat filter at a time.

Reel recaps
Remember those online classes where ‘network issues’ mysteriously coincided with surprise quizzes? Yes, that won’t fly under Gen Z teachers. Their classes will be more lit than a bonfire on the sun. Forget chalkboards, and think Discord chatrooms for debates and chapter recaps on Instagram reels where even the periodic table gets a glow-up. Virtual Reality labs will replace stuffy classrooms, sparing us from ammonia’s assault on our noses. With these modern-day educators, learning will be as binge-worthy as your favourite Netflix series.

Vibe checks
Checking for vitals? That’s so last century. The future of healthcare will begin with mandatory ‘vibe checks’ before consultations. First-aid manuals will be replaced by YouTube shorts featuring ‘aesthetic’ CPR. Despite spending years mastering their craft at med-schools, the young doctors are more likely to prescribe soul-soothing scented candles over time-tested medicines. And let’s not forget the real tragedy: Their hard-earned degree will hold less social currency than a TikTok doctor with 2 million followers.

Baggy jeans bosses
Gone are the days of stiff power suits. These self-made billionaires will be running board meetings in baggy jeans and hoodies, proving once and for all that comfort is the real key to success. The corner office? Irrelevant. It’s all about co-working spaces with succulents, overpriced lattes, and kombucha breaks. Board meetings will be less about spreadsheets and more about brainstorming viral Instagram campaigns. Employee perks? Think mental health days, therapy coverage, and an office therapy dog named Biscuit (who, let’s be honest, is the real boss here).

Self-taught therapists
If there’s one profession Gen Z was born for, it’s therapy. Because while processing your emotions, they also get to hear all the tea. Forget confidentiality agreements… you might just find your session inspiring Olivia Rodrigo’s next heartbreak anthem. Have identity crises? Chronic overthinking perhaps? Your Gen Z therapist probably relates to them on a spiritual level. Every appointment will feel less like therapy and more like a vent session about childhood trauma, social media anxiety, and that one relative who always asks, “Beta, shaadi kab kar rahe ho?” (No, Auntie, not today.)

Vibe-checks or not, one thing is clear: professions will never be the same. And if you ever find yourself in a Gen Z workplace, remember: every day is an adventure. Just do not forget to update your status.

(Advika is currently pursuing BA LLB at Faculty of Law, Delhi University.)

Movie review

A race against time

Movie: The Vaccine War
Directed by: Vivek Agnihotri
Released on: September 28, 2023
Starring: Anupam Kher, Nana Patekar, Nivedita Bhattacharya
Genre: Medical drama, Thriller

 

Synopsis: Based on the book ‘Going Viral: Making of Covaxin’ by former ICMR Director-General Dr Balram Bhargava, The Vaccine War is India’s first bio-science film. It portrays the intense journey of the scientists, biologists, and virologists involved in creating Covaxin - India’s first indigenous coronavirus vaccine. The plot highlights the challenges faced by Dr Bhargava, who helmed the biomedical research institute at the time, alongside his colleagues at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Virology (NIV). The team battles not only a novel virus but also bureaucratic hurdles and hostile media figures who openly doubt India’s scientific capabilities. The film dramatises the societal tensions between science, authority, and the media.
Why is it worth watching: This engaging medical thriller delves into the contentious debate surrounding vaccine safety and workplace challenges scientists faced during the pandemic. It highlights both the personal and professional lives of the scientists as they strive to develop India’s first indigenous vaccine. The story evokes a sense of patriotism while honouring the sacrifice and success of the unsung heroes who helped make India free from the novel coronavirus in record time.
Iconic dialogue: “Aaj pehli baar mareez bankar main neeche leta aur mere upar doctor khada tha. Aur dono ki aankhon mein tha maut ka darr.”
Rating:
Review by: Aryan Chhabra
AIS Noida, X J