Gen Z Values: Positive or Negative?
A topic people keep asking me about lately: working with Generation Z employees in the age of Covid-19. As a management consultant, I wonder: how can we harness the vibrant creativity and new workplace expectations of “Gen Z”?
Gen Z is known for their passion and drive, with a strong desire to make a positive impact on the world. They value purposeful work and seek meaning in what they do. As managers, it's crucial for us to understand where these employees are coming from. Engage in open conversations about their goals, interests, and what they hope to achieve in their careers. By aligning their personal aspirations with the organization's vision, we can create a sense of purpose that motivates them to excel.
Gen Z grew up surrounded by technology, and it's no surprise that they are digital natives. Don’t believe me? Ask your favorite 13-year-old to update your smart phone’s operating system, and marvel at how they can complete this task in about two minutes!
To effectively work with Gen Z, we must embrace technology and provide them with the necessary tools and platforms to excel. Encourage the use of collaboration tools, communication apps, and remote work options.
Gen Z employees thrive in an environment that values teamwork and collaboration. As a generation that is laser focused on fighting injustice and embracing diversity, they want to know that everyone's voices are heard and respected. As managers, it's our responsibility to create a culture that encourages collaboration.
Gen Z employees are rule-breakers, but they also relish the opportunity to work with a mentor. Do your employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas and challenging the status quo with you, their manager? Intergenerational knowledge and experience sharing make for a stronger workplace. I encourage those in management to embrace generational differences!
Gen Z highly values work-life balance. They prioritize their mental well-being, reaching for balance, not burn-out. As managers, we can support them by promoting a healthy work-life balance. Encourage them to take breaks, practice self-care, and disconnect from work when needed. Provide flexible working hours and vacation policies that allow them to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By showing that we value their well-being, we foster loyalty and dedication.
As a “human-first” management consultant, I’m disappointed when I see Boomers and Gen Z employees experiencing workplace friction. Working with an intergenerational workforce can and should be an incredibly rewarding experience for managers and employees.
How could we make this happen? Ideally, managers could be thinking about how to create conditions in which each group can help the other. Gen Z can assist Boomers to appreciate and utilize the digital world. Concurrently, Boomers can provide insight to how things have changed and can provide historical perspectives. This kind of team work can result in the release of creativity and innovation.
By fostering a sincere understanding of this generation, we can create an inclusive and engaging workplace environment where Gen Z and the business both thrive! Let's harness their unique strengths and perspectives to drive innovation, productivity, and success together. Here's to a bright and prosperous future with Gen Z!