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Why reference a fictional coach as a guide to managing people? Because in the world of Ted Lasso, people are important, and leadership isn’t just about winning games—it’s about building a culture that lifts everyone. If you have been watching the news feeds discussing what Gen Z is looking for when they choose careers and employers, you will see the synergy between how Lasso handles the personalities, skills, needs, and challenges while building a team that works together to meet their goals. Lasso’s 13 rules can help to shape your culture so that it resonates with Gen Z new hires and nurtures them as they grow. It can also help to maintain harmony and growth for all generations.

Gen Z values authenticity more than anything else. They can spot a performance a mile away, so paying lip service to values that aren’t actually part of the culture is the fastest way to lose them. They want to work in environments that prioritize genuine respect. Leaders who are transparent about their intentions and actions create a workplace where everyone feels seen and valued—concepts that may not have been part of the hiring discussion or performance evaluations for past generations. In print shops and marketing services companies, this means being upfront about challenges while celebrating even small wins.