The generation born between 1996 and 2001, known as Generation Z, is the first to have grown up fully in the digital age.
As they enter the workforce they will bring with them valuable ideas and insight into how technology can foster efficiency and communication in the office.
Who They Are
Following Millennials into the workplace, Gen Z shares some of the same characteristics, but they have a different set of standards and expectations. Forbes has predicted that as soon as 2021, they will make up 20% of the labor force.
While Millennials invented social media, Generation Z are the experts. They create and cultivate relationships online, but also seek a face-to-face community. They use technology in unique ways and expect equality, equal pay for everyone, and diversification in the workplace.
What They Bring to the Table
Generation Z is bringing big ideas to the workplace. Having mastered social media, they understand how to use it to build relationships to optimize their company’s outcomes. They are passionate about technology in general and are not afraid of change. In fact, they are a valuable resource for helping shape how technology can be integrated into the current corporate culture.
As a generation, they’re geared to getting things done quickly and efficiently because they have harnessed the power of technology. As they bring that power to the office, they’ll bring efficient multi-tasking with it.
If you can provide the technological integration this generation seeks, they’ll thrive. However, it’s not just about technology for them, remember, they crave relationships as well.
How to Attract and Retain Gen Z
By cultivating mentorships with older more experienced workers, Generation Z will learn and in turn, share their ideas and technology. They simply want to be seen and be heard and mentorships allow this to happen.
This rising generation is bringing with them new expectations and standards. While they have a lot to learn from real-world experience and teaching, they also bring a valuable skill set to the workplace that will keep your business efficient and profitable in the coming years.
