Gen Z – The Workplace’s Most Powerful Group Smarter-Faster-Better Armed for Success

The Millennial generation will be replaced by Gen Z. Between the ages of 10 and 25 (in 2022) this generation is made up of children, teenagers, and young adults. From the moment of their birth, this generation has been exposed to the internet, social media, and mobile devices. This has led to the creation of a generation that is accustomed to a world that is changing quickly. Understanding Gen Z’s motivating elements and values is crucial for effective team leadership.

Working with Generation Z can be challenging, especially if you belong to a previous generation. The first thing that you need to have in mind is that Gen Z is 100% Digitally Native. They haven’t seen the world without social media, online gaming and virtual assistants (Alexa, Siri). Engaging this Generation might require a bit more effort especially taking in mind that they spent most of their time on YouTube, TikTok and Instagram (Vs Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn-usually preferred by older generations).

Gen Zers are super confident with their Technology Skills, but not so much with their #SoftSkills, #SocialSkills and #PeopleSkills. They are nonetheless on track to becoming the most well-educated generation so far. They acknowledge that they use Google to learn whatever they don’t already know.

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They have a strong concentration on money, and their employment is just a means to an end. They are most inclined to accept a job that offers a reliable salary and essential benefits; however, they are highly entrepreneurial, and they aren’t afraid to pursue their ideas, especially considering that they constantly seek new ideas and experiences.

Their views on Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (DEI) extend beyond age, religion, gender, color, to the acceptance of differing points of view. They are also conscious about working for companies with a caring culture, which ties with how DEI is handled.

Most people in this age group are accustomed to getting praise and awards for merely showing up, making an effort, and being present, but not so much for producing actual outcomes. They appear impatient when waiting for outcomes.

A good work/life balance was cited as the top factor in Gen Z choosing their place of employment (32%), followed by learning and development possibilities (29%) and a good wage (24%), according to a 2022 survey by Deloitte. Having plenty of options to grow is also very important.

Nevertheless, every employer who wants their firm to succeed should make figuring out what drives their employees and how to help them in doing so a top priority.

Being able to relate to this generation takes ongoing learning and adaptability. Rising to their needs, expectations and demands requires skills, knowhow, and effort.

Accountability, together with clearly defined goals and an emphasis on their talents, might work wonders with this group.

Previous generations need to come up with strategies to keep them motivated to work now that they are taking over the workplace.  Managers may enable Gen Zers to perform to their maximum potential by regularly providing feedback, encouraging interpersonal interactions, and offering a clear path for career advancement.

Author: Andrie Penta (Ms) - Corporate Trainer & Consultant