Gen Z in the Workplace: How They’re Shaping the Future and What It Means for Leaders
I was honored to be featured in a live, national television interview on Scripps News! I always enjoy my interviews with them, especially when I get to discuss a hot topic that is both fascinating and incredibly important: How Gen Z is transforming the workplace. Check out the full interview link here. They asked some great questions, right?!
During the interview, we explored some of the big shifts happening as more Gen Z’ers enter the workforce. It’s clear that these changes are being felt by leaders and teams alike of every generation and across industries!
One key point I touched on is that Gen Z is entering the workforce at an older age than many previous generations, which means they have less work experience at the same age when compared to other generations in the workforce, especially Gen X and Baby Boomers. This experience gap is often frustrating for senior leaders, who feel like Gen Z doesn’t have enough experience—and they’re right! But that experience gap can only be solved through actual work experience which is finally happening as Gen Z is now the fastest-growing generation in the workforce.
Another key point I loved sharing is that we’re seeing Gen Z bring a different perspective and work style into the workplace. Gen Z grew up with mobile devices that are constantly connected to the Internet and each other. Gen Z experienced remote learning during the pandemic which, for many, upended habits, learning styles, and trajectories into higher education and the workforce. At the same time, Gen Z has only known and fully expects real-time feedback and interactions. It’s a misread to say that Gen Z is unwilling to adapt. Rather, Gen Z is just bringing a different approach. Every new generation before them has, too! You can read more about this in our bestselling book, Zconomy. Click here to read the first chapters for free.
This new approach to work, work styles, learning, and communication doesn’t mean employers should coddle them or hand out participation trophies (we all know that doesn’t work and can actually create the opposite outcomes!). Instead, it’s about finding a middle ground where both Gen Z and their more experienced leaders can learn from each other. Recognizing and honoring generational differences and perspectives and learning from them are actually what make organizations stronger! I’ve seen many smart leaders asking, “How can we engage with Gen Z while staying true to our company values?” And that’s a great question to ask. Merging work styles unlocks so many gains and leaders can do so without giving up or changing who they are from a values standpoint.
Another big trend I discussed is Gen Z’s focus on work-life balance and mental health. Gen Z expects employers to offer free mental health services—and guess what? Other generations want this now, too. Companies that provide these benefits see better retention and healthier work cultures. It’s a win-win for every generation!
Yes, Gen Z is driving change but often this change can lead to growth, especially when combined with the strengths and perspectives of other generations. This is the power of bringing generations together and leveraging their individual and shared strengths!
There’s no doubt that Gen Z is impacting the world of work and will shape the future of work for decades to come. I’m excited to see how the workplace will continue to evolve as more employers recognize the value Gen Z brings and how to merge that with every other generation in their workforce, too. For more of our Gen Z research, check out our State of Gen Z study here.
Let’s keep the conversation going and bring out the best in every generation!
Posted: September 23rd, 2024
Categories: Consulting | Gen Z | Generations | Media | Trends | Zconomy | Zillennials
Written by Jason Dorsey
Jason Dorsey is an acclaimed generations and behavioral researcher and speaker. He's received over 1,000 standing ovations for his unique keynote presentations. Jason has led over 120 research studies. Adweek calls him a "research guru." His mission is to deliver new insights and practical strategies that solve business challenges for leaders.
