Is the “Gen Z stare” a breakdown in etiquette—or a new, authentic way of showing focused listening?

In this AI-Powered Debate focused on etiquette, hosted by Adrienne Barker, MAS on the Professional Global Etiquette Podcast, two AI voices unpack the viral workplace behavior dubbed the “Gen Z stare.”

One side argues the absence of nods, smiles, and “mm-hm” cues disrupts clarity, confidence, and collaboration.

The other side reframes the still, steady gaze as non-performative presence—an authenticity-driven shift shaped by digital life, post-pandemic anxiety, and global norms where sustained eye contact can read as aggressive.

Together, they explore intention vs. impact, Western vs. Eastern eye-contact expectations, and how evolving signals of respect are rewriting meeting-room etiquette.

Key Takeaways

→ Nonverbal feedback (nods, brief verbal cues) lubricates conversation flow and boosts perceived speaker competence.

→ Stillness can signal genuine cognitive focus—not disengagement—especially among digital-native Gen Z.

→ Intention vs. impact: etiquette prioritizes the other person’s comfort and clarity in high-stakes settings.

→ Eye-contact norms are cultural: intense gaze = respect in some places, rudeness or challenge in others.

→ Performance vs. presence: traditional cues can be performative; “the stare” pushes toward authenticity.

→ Practical fix: clarify expectations—“I’m listening quietly to absorb”—and agree on feedback signals for meetings.

→ Managers: request quick check-ins (summaries, “got it” moments) without policing personality; employees: show comprehension explicitly at key moments.

Featuring AI-Powered Debate focused on etiquette, hosted by Adrienne Barker, MAS — Professional Global Etiquette Podcast.

If this debate helped you navigate mixed-signal meetings, follow and rate the show. Need team training or want to launch your own AI debate podcast?

Connect with Adrienne at Professional Global Etiquette.