Is role-playing too cringy for Gen Z?

Many say yes — especially traditional “perform in front of the group” style. But after decades of facilitating sessions, I believe the real issue isn’t role-playing itself. It’s how it’s done.

Early in my career, I created a public workshop on non-verbal communication. A seasoned professional told me I was “the worst speaker he had ever heard” and suggested I hire my replacement in my own show! He offered zero feedback and no chance to practice.

That harsh criticism could have ended my speaking journey. Instead, it fueled me. I committed to deliberate practice — including role-playing — and eventually became President of the National Speakers Association in the Chicago area.

Real Results with Young People

Recently, a college marketing student preparing for a big presentation told me she’d been labeled a “poor public speaker.” We practiced content and non-verbal skills together over Zoom in a low-pressure setting.

After her actual presentation she said: “It went really well! Practicing over Zoom really helped. I was still nervous but not as much as I usually am and I was able to get through everything pretty easily too!”

Another time, a motivated 15-year-old wanted to start a car detailing business. He and his 11-year-old sister practiced with me first — scripting how to start conversations, describe their services, and ask for the sale.

They nailed their calls to adults they didn’t know right out of the gate.

The Key Difference

Gen Z faces real public speaking and social anxiety. They don’t hate practice — they hate feeling judged or exposed in awkward group settings.

When role-playing is private or small-group, tied to real goals, and supportive rather than performative, the cringe factor disappears and confidence grows fast.

Roleplaying is still one of the most powerful ways to build skills like asking critical questions, handling objections, navigating conflict, and practicing rhetorical techniques.

If you manage Gen Z talent and want practical ways to make role-play effective instead of awkward, I am happy to help.  lori_miller@tootyinc.com