The emergence of a new non-verbal communication style among Generation Z, commonly referred to as the “Gen Z stare,” is reshaping interactions, particularly in retail and service sectors. This unique gaze, characterized by a blank expression, slow blink, or head tilt, conveys a profound sense of contempt without uttering a single word. According to social researcher Mark McCrindle, this stare often arises during conversations with older generations, who may misinterpret it as rudeness.
The term “Zoomers” typically describes individuals born between 1997 and 2012, making them currently aged between 13 and 28. Growing up entirely in the digital era, many Zoomers work in environments like retail and hospitality, where they encounter older customers who may not share their digital savvy. “Zoomers have grown up with all the solutions they want being just two clicks away,” McCrindle explains. This digital upbringing shapes their expectations and interactions.
In contrast, older generations, such as Baby Boomers and Generation X, are often more accustomed to traditional shopping behaviors. They tend to seek guidance with questions like, “What’s the best deal?” or “How does this work?” From a Zoomer’s perspective, these inquiries may seem obvious, leading to their characteristic stare in response. One Zoomer, known as Kilo-taba, succinctly expressed the sentiment on social media: “If you’re being an idiot, I’m going to stare at you.”
The dynamics of customer service have evolved, with Zoomers prioritizing efficiency and authenticity. “They’re not going to fake it,” McCrindle asserts, noting that lower staff ratios and tighter margins in the retail sector often result in less training and supervision. This shift has led to a less customer-oriented experience, which can exacerbate tensions between generations.
A personal account from a 19-year-old employee at Supamart illustrates the phenomenon further. She describes herself as “the queen of the Gen Z stare,” explaining that when faced with irate customers, her instinct is to simply stare back blankly. “Why should I humour some random aggro person in my minimum-wage job?” she asks, highlighting a growing disinterest in traditional customer service norms.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may also play a role in the rise of the Gen Z stare. As reported in Marie Claire, the decline in face-to-face interactions during lockdowns has contributed to this new form of communication. McCrindle emphasizes that the stare is not inherently an insult. Yet, many adults feel judged when confronted with it, leading to discomfort and confusion about what might have been said to provoke such a reaction.
The Gen Z stare has become a subtle form of resistance, leaving the recipient to grapple with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. The lack of verbal feedback creates a space where one might question their own communication skills and social awareness. For those skilled in this art, like McCrindle’s daughters, the stare can be so effective that the target might not even realize they are being stared at, adding a layer of psychological complexity to the interaction.
To respond to the Gen Z stare, some adults may choose to mirror the gesture, tapping into their own life experiences of exhaustion and apathy. This exchange of silent expressions highlights a generational divide that continues to shape social interactions.
As the generations continue to navigate these evolving communication styles, the Gen Z stare stands as a symbol of a broader cultural shift, reflecting changing attitudes toward authority, customer service, and interpersonal engagement in an increasingly digital world.
