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Gen Z Workplace Challenges & 3 Strategies for Career Success
Description
Why are companies firing Gen Z employees — and what can be done to help them succeed?
In August, I attended the 2025 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication conference in San Francisco.
My colleague, Dr. Nandini Bhalla of Texas State University, led a stellar panel titled “Why are companies firing Gen Z employees? Workforce Strategies and Solutions for PR’s Next Generation.”
The panel featured an all-star lineup of experts:
- Caitlin Haskins – Vice President of AI, Big Data & Cloud at 10Fold Communications
- Michelle Galey – Washington State University
- Jeffrey Ranta – Coastal Carolina University
- Caitlin Cieslik-Miskimen – University of Idaho
- Moderator - Nandini Bhalla, Texas State University
After the panel, I pulled out my iPhone and asked Caitlin Haskins a couple of questions about what she sees in the workplace. In this short interview, Caitlin shared practical strategies that every Gen Z professional can use to thrive in today’s workplace. The AEJMC Public Relations Division co-sponsored this panel with the Internships & Careers Interest Group.
Caitlin's tips are clear and actionable. Listeners will walk away with 3 strategies they can use immediately.
- Reliability — show up, meet deadlines, and build trust
- Proactive communication — keep projects and teams aligned
- Growth mindset — turn feedback into a tool for long-term success
You can learn more about Caitlin Haskins from her LinkedIn profile and in this Ragan PR Daily article.
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Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam.
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