Using Emoji in the Workplace - Helpful or Risky?

In today’s diverse workplace, communication styles are as varied as the generations sharing the office. One of the most debated tools in digital conversations? Emojis.

While 88% of Canadian Gen Z employees say emojis help them connect with coworkers, older generations often approach them with caution. For Gen Z, a thumbs up might be ironic, while Boomers may interpret it literally—and that’s where things can get messy.

In fact, 46% of Canadian workers across all age groups cite “misinterpreting tone or phrasing” as their biggest communication challenge. Emojis, meant to clarify tone, can sometimes do the opposite—especially when used sarcastically or out of context.

Still, with Millennials now making up 35% of the workforce and Gen Z close behind, emojis are here to stay. When used thoughtfully, they can bridge generational gaps and add clarity to quick messages.



So, should you use emojis at work? Yes—but use them wisely. Know your audience, keep context in mind, and remember: sometimes a word is worth a thousand emojis.

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