CEO reveals a simple habit that can help Gen Z remote workers stand out and fast-track career growth beyond physical workplaces

The nine-to-five office grind is fading, but that doesn’t mean work has become easier. As hybrid and remote jobs reshape career paths, younger professionals are learning to navigate a system where flexibility rules but structure often disappears. While experts such as HR strategist Anessa Fike have called traditional office routines “archaic” in interviews with CNBC Make It, one founder says the challenge now is ensuring that Gen Z workers build habits to thrive without in-person guidance.

The CEO’s Advice

Julia Haber, cofounder and CEO of Home From College, a Los Angeles-based gig-work platform, shared with Business Insider what she believes is the most overlooked skill for young professionals: proactive communication. Haber recommends that Gen Z remote workers send a weekly update to managers outlining completed tasks, questions, and goals.

“It’s about transparency,” she said, adding that such updates not only help managers stay informed but also give young employees a tool to advocate for promotions and recognition later.

Small Gestures, Big Impact

Beyond weekly reports, Haber encourages workers to start each day with a simple greeting message to their supervisors. “Hi, I hope you’re having a good day,” may not seem like much, but she argues it signals presence, reliability, and readiness to contribute. She also advises scheduling regular 15-minute check-ins to build the kind of face time that can get lost in remote settings.

A Generation Redefining Norms

This advice lands in a moment when Gen Z is pushing back hardest against outdated structures. As workplace researcher Amanda Schneider noted in a TEDxFargo talk, many young employees prefer frequent career changes over climbing traditional ladders. They value flexibility, inclusion, and radical transparency, often blending digital and physical work without seeing much distinction.

Why Habits Matter More Than Hours

With “phygital” work becoming standard, experts argue the real differentiator will be how effectively workers manage relationships, not how many hours they log. For Haber, that starts with a simple but powerful practice: consistent communication.

“Remote work isn’t just about independence,” she explained. “It’s about clarity, accountability, and making sure your contributions don’t go unnoticed.”

As the workplace transforms, Gen Z is rewriting what career success looks like. But one thing remains unchanged: the need to be seen. And according to Haber, regular updates and check-ins could be the very habit that ensures young professionals not only adapt but also excel in this new era of work.