Generation Z in the Workplace: Top 4 Things You Need to Know

Born roughly between 1995 and 2010, Generation Z is proving to be fundamentally different to its predecessors – the Millennials – in more ways than one. Gen Z has a distinct list of priorities, values and desires, and with almost a quarter of the workforce now made up of this new generation of workers, it is important that employers take their differences into consideration and adapt to the ever-evolving scene.

To help you as an employer understand who they are, what makes them tick and what to expect from them in the workplace, here are the top 4 things you need to know to be able to adapt successfully.

  1. Gen Z is more competitive
    These individuals are fully aware that to be successful requires a lot of hard work, and that nothing will be handed to them on a silver platter. Whilst Millennials thrive in team situations, Generation Z individuals place importance on being recognised for their own achievements and pushing themselves to progress professionally and financially – stemming from a desire to create stability and security. As an employer, regularly praising and providing feedback on their performance will show that you are supportive of their career progression and are willing to help them advance in the way they want to. Communication is key here.
  2. Gen Z values a work-life balance
    Whilst this generation strives for advancement and success in the workplace, it also longs for a balance between work and play. Forbes reports that this ranks lower on the priority list in comparison to that of a Millennial, nevertheless, it is a central factor and trumps other generations. Employers would be wise to promote a culture of ‘work hard, play hard’ and to offer opportunities for flexibility. Listen to how they feel and provide an accommodating atmosphere that promotes a reduction in workplace burnout.
  3. Gen Z is more digitally savvy
    Generation Z has grown up surrounded by technology, immersing themselves in the world of smartphones and Wi-Fi from an early age. There won’t be much tech that confuses them and they are quick to adopt anything new and upcoming into their daily lives, from social media platforms to innovative apps. To be viewed as an appealing employer, therefore, you must match their intelligence and ensure that your online presence and in-house technology are up-to-date, if not a little ahead of the game. Allow them to thrive!
  4. Gen Z wants authenticity and inclusivity
    Just as Generation Z has grown up in a world that revolves around technology and innovation, they have also grown up in a world that is becoming more and more aware of its impacts on society and the global environment. This means that their desire to do good is strong, and they will want to work for an employer that not only shares this desire, but puts it into practice. It’s a good idea to showcase your commitment to being a transparent, responsible and fair employer that is informed on important current issues, or at least to demonstrate that you are attempting to do so. The proof is in the pudding.

In conclusion, employers will have to be more flexible than ever to welcome Generation Z into the workforce, but the rewards of doing so could be tremendous.

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Posted in: News
Generation Z sat around table chatting drinking coffee and using devices