If you’ve been reading about Generation Z in the workplace, you know that it’s a big deal. With more than 1 million people entering the workforce every month, it’s the most significant and exciting change we’ve seen since the Baby Boomers were in their 20s (and even before that).
But how do we know what they’ll be like? After all, not all members of this generation have yet entered the workplace or chosen to come into contact with employers.
1. Gen Z’ers are less concerned with money than previous generations
In a report published by the United Nations University, researchers found that young people are less focused on making money and more focused on doing work they find meaningful.
It’s no surprise that Gen Z is becoming more independent than previous generations because they grew up in a time where social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram have become mainstream entertainment options.
They’ve also experienced economic instability at home, so it makes sense that they’d want to be able to control their own finances instead of having someone else dictate how much money they make each month.
2. Gen Z values company culture
Gen Z is just now discovering who they are and what they want out of life. This makes them very open to new ideas and ways to work together with others to achieve a common goal.
Gen Z values company culture where they work because it reflects a culture that they want to be a part of. They want to be able to express themselves outside of their job duties, but also have a place where people can collaborate and share ideas within the company’s walls.
3. Work/life balance matters to Gen Z
Work/life balance matters to Gen Z today. The generation is more connected to the outside world than previous generations, and they are more likely to be working outside of the home. They are also less concerned about work-family balance than older generations.
The workplace is changing for Gen Z, but so are the expectations for what a “good life” looks like. This generation is interested in having a career that provides meaning and purpose, but also allows them to have fun along the way. They want to spend time with friends and family, but they also want flexibility so they can pursue their passions – whether it’s photography or woodworking or something else entirely.
4. Gen Z wants feedback at the workplace
Gen Z has a unique work style. It’s not just about how they respond to feedback, but also how they approach it. Gen Zers want to be heard, but they also want to give their co-workers the opportunity to speak up and be heard as well.
Gen Zers are open with what they have to say at the workplace. They are not afraid of making a mistake or admitting when they don’t know something. Gen Zers want their colleagues to feel comfortable enough in sharing their ideas, thoughts and opinions so that everyone can better understand each other.
The key is getting them involved in the conversation early on so they can get used to the idea of giving feedback in a healthy way that allows both parties to learn from each other.”
5. Gen Z is more social than Millenials and aren’t afraid to approach their superiors
Gen Z is more social than Millenials and aren’t afraid to approach their superiors, according to a recent study
The study by LinkedIn and the University of Texas at Austin found that Gen Z is comfortable approaching their managers and asking for help as they grow in their careers.
“Millennials are often known for being pushy and aggressive, but Gen Z is not afraid of approaching their supervisors,” said Abby Goodnoff, general manager at LinkedIn Workplace”. In fact, 62% of Gen Z employees have asked their managers for help.”
Bonus: To have a better relationship with younger employees
The workplace of Gen Z is different from that of previous generations. They want to work for companies that solve problems, rather than just make money. They want to work in teams where they can learn from other people and challenge themselves, while still having fun.
Gen Z’s expectations are high, but they also have big hearts, so it can be difficult for employers to know how to approach these young workers. There are five key things you can do to create a better relationship with younger employees:
1) Understand what matters most to them at work
2) Listen more than you talk
3) Talk less about yourself and more about them
4) Respect their age difference and use it as an opportunity to teach them something new
5) Treat them like adults