Generation Gap: Rethinking Soft Skills in the Hybrid Workplace

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Design Nerds Anonymous Podcast 

Season 6, Episode 8 Show Notes

In this episode, Amanda Schneider welcomes soft skills expert Kendra Johnson to discuss the evolving importance of soft skills in today’s hybrid workplace. As organizations navigate new challenges with dispersed teams and intergenerational differences, this conversation dives deep into the need for managers and employees alike to refine their communication, empathy, and adaptability. Learn how each generation, particularly Gen Z, is redefining expectations around work, collaboration, and boundaries in the professional environment.

After listening, you will be able to:  

• Understand the importance of soft skills in building effective teams, especially in hybrid or remote environments.
  
  
• Learn how to navigate generational differences in the workplace, particularly how Gen Z’s approach to work is shaping modern communication and collaboration.
  
  
• Recognize the need for active listening, accountability, and empathy to foster strong relationships across teams.
  
  
• Explore how communication frameworks and setting clear expectations can eliminate friction and improve team dynamics.
  
  
• Gain insights into managing up and down, and why mid-level leaders are essential to creating organizational success.
  
  
  

• Links Mentioned: 

  • Explore ThinkLab’s end-user decision-making research.
    
    
  • Learn more about The Venn Group.
    
    
  
  

• Connect with our guests on LinkedIn: 

  • Kendra Johnson

Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at surroundpodcasts.com. This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by Hannah Viti, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Rachel Senatore, Rob Shulte and Hannah Viti.  

Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Mannington Commercial, theMART, and NeoCon – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward.