How Generational Emoji Use Creates Communication Confusion At Work

Forbes

a day ago

How Generational Emoji Use Creates Communication Confusion At Work
If you use emojis at work, you might want to rethink how they're coming across. You might use the clapping emoji to say 'nicely done' or the thumbs-up emoji to show approval, but younger professionals often see them differently. That means your message might not land the way you intended. Just like the word 'cool' is no longer considered cool, emoji meanings keep changing. The thumbs-up symbol was one of the first to draw attention for being misinterpreted, and it's still raising questions. When you add symbols to make a message feel warmer or more expressive, and they get misread, it can lead to confusion or mixed signals.
Why The Thumbs-Up Emoji Became A Workplace Issue
Why The Thumbs-Up Emoji Became A Workplace Issue
The thumbs-up emoji gained widespread criticism in 2022, particularly across Reddit and TikTok, where younger users shared examples of how it made them feel dismissed or shut down. What someone meant as, 'All set,' was interpreted as, 'I don't want to deal with this.' A Perspectus Global survey found that a majority of respondents between the ages of 16 and 29 believed you were 'officially old' if you used a thumbs-up or red heart emoji. Nearly one in four Gen Z professionals viewed the thumbs-up as rude or hostile. As emojis continue to carry emotional weight in workplace communication, it becomes more important to understand how those symbols are being received.
What Are The Most Commonly Misread Emojis At Work
What Are The Most Commonly Misread Emojis At Work
The clapping emoji is one I've used regularly to mean congratulations or well done. But Gen Z often uses it not as a show of support, but as sarcastic emphasis.
The smiling face emoji is another that splits the generations. I have used them in my messages to students to ensure they know my tone was intended to be friendly. For younger workers, it can see it as forced, disingenuous, or even condescending. If someone sends critical feedback followed by a smiley face, Gen Z might read it as passive-aggressive rather than thoughtful.
The skull emoji is also interesting. Traditionally, it represented death, danger, or horror. Gen Z now uses it to mean they are 'dead' from laughing. It is humor, not morbidity. In a group chat, it might be the equivalent of someone crying with laughter. But if a manager sees it and interprets it literally, that difference can lead to confusion or concern.
The OK hand sign has evolved as well. While older generations use it to say 'all good' or 'that works,' younger users sometimes interpret it as dismissive or meaningless. In some online circles, it has even taken on other unintended meanings. Even when used with good intentions, it may no longer read that way.
The loudly crying face emoji, the one with a stream of tears flowing, used to be a symbol of deep sadness or grief. In recent years, it has become a favorite for showing extreme emotional responses, including laughter. It is often used dramatically, with exaggerated humor. That difference between serious emotion and playful sarcasm can create major misunderstandings in workplace chats.
Why Emoji Use Creates A Bigger Problem Than Just Confusion
Why Emoji Use Creates A Bigger Problem Than Just Confusion
Most employees are not trying to offend anyone. But, when people misinterpret the tone, they begin to question the intent.
The problem is the lack of shared understanding. When one person thinks a message says, 'You did great,' and the other thinks it says, 'I'm annoyed with you,' that is a breakdown in communication.
Leaders need to recognize this. Just as they would teach team members how to write professional emails, they should also be talking about tone in digital platforms. Tools like Slack, Teams, or group messaging apps have made emoji use even more popular. That's why it matters even more to address the gap.
What You Can Do To Prevent Emoji Issues On Your Team
What You Can Do To Prevent Emoji Issues On Your Team
Start by creating a space for discussion. Ask your team how they interpret certain emojis. You may be surprised how differently people feel about symbols you thought were universal.
Model clear communication. If you use emojis, pair them with wording that makes your meaning unmistakable. A thumbs-up alone might read as abrupt. Saying 'Thanks again for handling that' provides tone. If you want to use a clapping emoji, explain what you're celebrating. That extra sentence makes a difference.
Train managers to pause before they hit send. Communication in a multigenerational workplace requires more awareness than it used to. That includes not just what you say, but how you visually deliver it.
You Don't Have To Change Your Language Or Emoji Use
You Don't Have To Change Your Language Or Emoji Use
You don't have to use the same language Gen Z uses to understand what they mean. Let's say someone just finished a big project, and instead of saying, 'Nice work,' I said, 'That redesign was gas. Straight fire. You get a big W for that one. No cap.' I would sound like Phil Dunphy from Modern Family. It's okay to laugh at that. It's also okay to just say, 'Great job on that redesign. Nicely done.' You don't have to talk like someone younger to connect with them. You just need to stay curious about how your tone might land.
Curiosity About Emojis Strengthens Communication
Curiosity About Emojis Strengthens Communication
The way we communicate will keep shifting. Emojis change, tone evolves, and what sounds natural today might feel outdated tomorrow. You do not have to mirror every trend, but paying attention helps. Curiosity about how others express themselves makes conversations clearer and more respectful. When you stay open to how people prefer to connect, you create fewer misunderstandings and build stronger working relationships.