Gen Z definition: what does Gen Z mean?
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Gen Z definition
Gen Z's experiences and interactions with modern technology has created their own viewpoint, which they bring to the workplace. Gen Z, in contrast to other generations, has never experienced a time without social media, smartphones or the internet. Growing up in a world where technology is always connected and a part of everyday life, they are the first generation of true digital natives.
For Generation Z, seamless digital encounters are now standard. In every part of their lives, they anticipate effectiveness, comfort, and easily navigable user interfaces. Their upbringing with instantaneous access to information and rapid communication has shaped their expectation of efficient procedures and prompt outcomes. As such, they also carry these expectations into the working world.
According to a “Welcome to Generation Z” report by Deloitte, although salary is an important consideration when choosing a profession for all generations, Gen Z values salary less than other generations. When asked to choose between a more fulfilling but lower-paid job and one that is higher paying but less interesting, Gen Z members were almost evenly divided on the matter.
Companies and employers will need to emphasise their efforts to be decent global citizens if they want to win over Generation Z. Furthermore, as deeds speak louder than words, businesses need to show that they are committed to addressing a wider range of societal issues, including hunger, climate change, and sustainability.
Real-world context
- Importance of diversity: An EY survey found that 83% of Gen Z workers feel that having individuals from diverse cultures is the most crucial component of creating a cohesive team, while 63% of Gen Z employees feel that working with people from varied educational backgrounds and skill levels is vital. It may be time to reconsider your hiring procedure if there is a lack of diversity in your company. Collaborate closely with your HR departments to establish an equitable hiring procedure that welcomes candidates from all backgrounds.
- Company culture: Gen Z workers expect their professional lives to feel as fulfilling as their personal lives, as the boundaries between work and home are becoming more blurred. Workers of Generation Z want their relationships with bosses and co-workers to seem as intimate as possible and they want to feel appreciated at work. Creating a healthy business culture is essential to inspiring Gen Z employees. This can be achieved by combining effective communication, transparency in business operations, and comprehension of expectations for job advancement, pay, and perks.
- Flexibility: When Gen Z entered the workforce, remote and hybrid work arrangements were already commonplace. Gen Z employees now anticipate flexibility in the workplace as a result of this. The flexible work arrangements that this new generation needs are essential elements and markers of the comprehensive work environments that support their healthy working lives and mental wellbeing.
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