A huge shoutout to @Live95FM for having us on their panel discussion about the burning question: "Are Gen Z hard to work with?" Inspired by Jodie Foster's recent remarks on finding them "really annoying," let's dive into the fascinating world of Gen Z and explore the positives they bring to the table.
So, who exactly are Gen Z? Born between 1996 and 2010, this generation has been shaped by the digital age, climate concerns, economic shifts, and the ever-present COVID-19. Despite the debates about their career expectations, Gen Z brings a lot of zest to the workforce. Here are some of the highlights:
Creativity & Productivity: Their fresh perspective injects creativity and innovative solutions into team dynamics, providing new angles to old problems.
Diversity & Inclusion: Gen Z champions fairness, inclusion, and social justice, prompting organizations to reevaluate their policies and foster a more inclusive culture.
Technological Expertise: Quick to embrace new technologies, Gen Z's tech-savviness helps companies stay agile and navigate the digital landscape effortlessly.
Adaptability: Having weathered the storms of the pandemic, climate change, and social media at a young age, Gen Z emerges resilient and adaptable, bringing a valuable openness to change.
So, how do we tap into the potential of Gen Z? Here's a sneak peek:
In-Person Onboarding: A crucial step to help new hires integrate into the workplace culture, fostering relationships and understanding workplace etiquette.
Tailored Onboarding: Implement a buddy system to provide Gen Z hires with a go-to person for questions, easing social anxiety and fostering a comfortable learning environment.
Hybrid Working: Balancing flexibility and office presence can help Gen Z integrate seamlessly into the work environment, allowing them to learn and feel connected.
Educate on Organizational Structure: Managing expectations is key; educating new hires on the company structure and advancement criteria can promote contentment in their current roles.
Communication Style: Acknowledge their tech-savvy nature and guide them on effective team communication, encouraging a blend of digital and traditional methods.
Gen Z is not to be underestimated; they are the future consumers and a significant portion of the workforce. Brands aiming to tap into this market need to understand Gen Z and their digital preferences. With 30% of the world population and projected to make up 27% of the global workforce by 2025, Gen Z is a force to be reckoned with!