With Gen Z coming in with 40% of the new workforce in the next few years. It is only necessary to help our current leaders with this major transition that is about to come.
So what does this look like for our work force now? Well to answer this we must reflect on what is already our status quo. And for those of you reading that have kids aged 15-19 you will understand the points made as this is scene in their every day life.
For years Senior Executives have bought-in and partaken in enforcing this "American dream" lifestyle to the Baby Boomers, Generation X and what looks like nearly half of millennials. The corporate grind- to work hard for a company, stay loyal for years, and keep your nose out of trouble. it's what's been for the last 60+ years. It comes with mandated office hours where employees are forced to sit in traffic for hours, a return to work policy, restrictive employment contracts and offer improved collaboration and socializing as their reasons for success in their work .
But Gen Z's - they aren't having it. So let's breaks this down as to what was listed above with reasons as to why.
Technology Adoption: Both Millennials and Gen Z are often described as digital natives, having grown up surrounded by technology. However, Gen Z tends to have an even deeper integration with technology, having been born into a world where smartphones, social media, and digital communication are ubiquitous. This can translate into a greater comfort level with adopting new technologies and digital tools in the workplace. Gen Z don't buy into the notion that you cannot socialize remotely or be collaborative with your team through Microsoft Teams. They grew up with technology proving everyone who says this wrong. They came home from school to sign on to their PS4 and play with heir friends who live all over the world. Instagram, TikTok, and even Facebook prove that you can have a great community around you for support and fulfillment even if it's all remote.
Not to mention, the COVID lockdowns cemented this idea for them further. These same leaders told them during lockdowns to embrace the e-learning, online classes and collaborations tools. They told them this is a great tool and we should be using this to learn and be a community still, so telling them now that digitally working, socializing and collaborating online is bad means they just see us a a hypocrite.... a joke.
Work Ethic and Career Expectations: Gen Z is said to prioritize stability and financial security, likely influenced by witnessing the economic challenges faced by Millennials, such as the Great Recession. Gen Z may also exhibit a more entrepreneurial spirit, preferring freelance work or side hustles alongside traditional employment. They will be motivated by short-work-stints & project based work. Its said that Gen Z will change jobs up to 10 times between the ages of 18-34 and won't be told who they can or cant work for.
Structured 9-5 work hours/ In office work. They cant see how this model results in financial stability or wealth by any means. they cant afford, investments and struggle to pay rent - god forbid their car breaks down on the way to this 9-5 job. They grew up watching their parents working consistently to meet the economic demand of inflation, they were stressed, exhausted and 50% of them ended up divorced. Quality time with their parents were not existent as they came home after sitting in traffic for 1-2 hours and they are miserable not to mention have the highest rate in depression and anxiety and blame their exhaustion of work for it.
This is a model that doesn't inspire or motivate them to join as they have seen the damage it has done to their families.
Leadership and Management Styles: Millennials are now occupying more leadership positions in organizations, and their leadership style tends to be collaborative, inclusive, and focused on mentorship. As Gen Z enters the workforce, they may bring their own leadership style characterized by adaptability, creativity, and a desire for feedback and recognition.
Diversity and Inclusion policies in the workplace, Gen Z tends to be even more vocal and proactive about advocating for social justice issues. They expect employers to demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in their hiring practices, company culture, and social responsibility initiatives.
Mandated Return to Office policy, They cant afford to live in inner cities if they are told they must in order to commute to an office they see it as discrimination. They are acutely aware that power people simply cant entertain the idea inclusions is a bigger deal to Gen Z
Employers today must be flexible if they want to future proof their businesses. While there are general trends and characteristics associated with each generation, it's important to remember that individuals within each group are diverse and may not conform to all stereotypes. Effective management and collaboration in the workplace require understanding and trust while leveraging the strengths of each generation. We must all foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous learning!
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