Gen Z characteristics: How to approach a new generation of workforce
A new generation has arrived. Gen Z has been in the spotlight for quite some time now, as not only are Gen Z characteristics significantly different from any other generation, they are also now entering the corporate world. As a result, it is essential to understand what they will expect from their future workplace to create well-functioning teams. Growing up with technology and unlimited access to information, Gen Z characteristics and behaviours are far more distinct compared to the generations before them. So, how can we ensure companies will attract and retain a respectable number of Gen Z candidates? The answer is by simply understanding Gen Z characteristics and values. This way, you can enable your business to appear desirable for Gen Z and attract the right talent.
Who is Gen Z?
Gen Z comprises people born between 1997-2012, and will soon surpass Millennials as the most populous generation on Earth. Gen Z characteristics are described as technologically sophisticated, racially and ethnically diverse, tech-savvy, and the generation is set to become the best educated. Moreover, this is a generation that is not only more diverse but one that also embraces diversity. Their values are set around social justice matters, equality and diversity, sustainability, and ethicality. With their unique career perspectives and definition of success in both life and work, the impact of Gen Z entering the corporate world will be profound.
Gen Z characteristics
Given that Gen Z characteristics are significantly different from any other generation, it won’t come as a surprise that their work preferences and expectations are utterly different too. To ensure that your team members are cooperating well and generation differences are adequately addressed, it is crucial to be able to effectively manage age diversity and encourage a healthy, well-balanced work environment. If you would like to find out more about how age diversity can positively influence your business, read one of our latest blogs regarding this fascinating topic.
Gen Z characteristics as a workforce
Gen Z as a workforce is an uncannily fascinating generation. A recent study showed that 39% of Gen Zers value work-life balance and personal well-being the most. Benefits such as paid time off, mental-health days, or activities are not a bonus but standard criteria for Gen Zers. Even though money was listed as a major influence to Gen Z searching for career opportunities, salary has been valued less than any other generation. Gen Z employees also consider the work culture, values, diversity, and inclusivity of companies they are interested in working for. Amongst Gen Z, diversity is at the very top of the list of characteristics which companies should prioritise in making sure that their work environment is welcoming and supportive.
Furthermore, one of the most paramount Gen Z characteristics is the fact that their cohort is most likely to quit if they feel unsatisfied at work. Gen Z tends to prioritise social activism more than any other generation, with 77% of those surveyed answering that it is very important for them to work at organisations whose values align with their own. As diversity is listed among their core values, it will soon become essential for all employees to create welcoming and inclusive environments in order to attract new employees.
To effectively retain Gen Z employees, it is important to understand and meet their needs in order to create the ideal work environment for them. For instance, to keep your Gen Z employer engaged and satisfied you will need to provide plenty of learning and upskilling opportunities.
We can’t move forward without diversity
Gen Z characteristics circle around social matters, having life-work balance, and fulfilment. Allocating time to ensure that both your team leaders and members hold adequate knowledge of diversity will become necessary to appeal to the ever-important Gen Z. Investing in DE&I training will allow your future employees to feel heard and understood. Establishing internal communication strategies that cater to all generations will be important to ensure everyone is included and has what works best for them. Given authenticity is particularly important to Gen Z, they expect to see their employers communicating with them in this way. Although, it is always worth remembering that one size doesn’t fit all.
Gen Z characteristics are notably different from previous generations, and so is the way they operate and communicate. To succeed, businesses should consider investing in new training that will convert the workplace in a way that increases value and meaning for their employees. What we have learned about Gen Z characteristics so far is that their new mindset demands a more personal and value-driven work environment and will soon influence all industries. As a global diversity, equity, and inclusion consultancy firm, we can help your business prepare for the upcoming changes and retrieve the benefits that diversity has to offer.
