Characteristics of Generation Z In the Workplace
Generation Z, known as Gen Z for short, is the generation which succeeds millennials. They are a group of young adults born between the late 1990s and early 2010s. This generation makes up the majority of secondary school students, university undergraduates and entry-level workers in today’s world. According to studies, Gen Zers represent about 20% of the UK population and 30% of the world population. Generation Z is gradually taking over the labour market from millennials.
Research says that come 2025, Gen Zers will make up 27% of the workforce. Post-Covid 19, there has been a need for recruiters to employ candidates who possess new soft skills. Soft skills such as entrepreneurial and technical skills to adapt to environmental changes like a stay-at-home order. Just as we had during the pandemic in 2020. This new demand has made talent acquisition in the job market a bit difficult. At the same time, it has paved the way for the youngest generation in the workforce, Generation Z, to make their grand entrance into the labour market. Now, recruiters who are looking for talented employees in the workplace know where to go.
Other than the negative stereotype associated with Generation Z, they have specific characteristics or traits that are bound to change the workplace positively in the future. These characteristics distinguish them from other generations. Today, we will talk about five of them.
Let’s roll;
They are born-creatives
Creativity is not only about being the next Leonardo da Vinci but also about finding easy ways to do the hard stuff. Gen Zers have proven to be more innovative than the older generations.
What can I say? That’s what you get from a generation that grew up with social media.
In the UK, research has shown that 88.8% of young adults see themselves as creative. That’s a huge number right there.
Now, you might wonder how creativity contributes positively to the workforce and why it has become one of the criteria for recruiters to find talents today. If you must know, creativity births an idea that can transform a brand from an afterthought to the main event instantly. (Snaps finger) Every successful company starts as an idea.
Creativity helps you to bring that idea to life. Companies want employees who can think outside the box and be result-oriented. So why shouldn’t creativity be a top requirement in a candidate search? Before we get into the second characteristic, let’s take a quick u-turn to elaborate on a statement I made earlier.
Everyone knows that Generation Z has proven to be more creative than millennials.
No shades intended here.
It’s a fact, but let’s not debate that today.
With this said, it doesn’t mean that creativity fades away with age because it doesn’t. What I mean is that a lot is going on in the lives of the older generation, that there’s no time to get into that creative mode.
They have more responsibilities.
A millennial somewhere is probably thinking about how to prepare breakfast for her kids on time before they go to school. Gen Zers are young, vibrant, innovative and constantly surrounded by inspiration. They tick all the boxes set by recruiters today. I’m glad you understand where I’m getting.
They are expressive
Generation Z is vocal about what they are looking for in a job. While your talent acquisition team are busy going through job submissions, a Gen Zer is also trying to see if your company is a match for where they want to be. This trait demonstrates excellent decision-making and communication skills, which are the core skills recruiters look forward to during a job hire. Being expressive can be misinterpreted as being opinionated by the older generations, which is another thing that sets them apart again. Let’s assume that you are a recruiter looking for the perfect candidate to fill a managerial position.
Would you tell me that you won’t keep an eye on candidates who can find their voice? So that’s all there is to it.
Gen Zers hate to be constricted or kept on the sidelines. They want to be carried along and be involved in roles in a company. When companies carry them along, they feel they are being heard and appreciated.
It helps them to be more creative, as we discussed earlier on.
They are energetic
There’s nothing Gen Zers hate more in a work environment than a toxic workplace. I mean, it’s too early for that. Positive energy in a workplace is like a breath of fresh air.
Don’t you agree? I hate to make the older generations look bad, but unlike millennials, Gen Zers say they are more optimistic and motivated to carry out tasks. They are like a time bomb waiting to explode.
When you have the right energy and a less toxic working spirit as an employee, it rubs off on other employees. Companies that look out for this characteristic will see that Gen Zers are the perfect blend of good energy and excellent working skills.
They are digital-natives
While millennials are considered the most tech-savvy generation in the workplace, generation Z are the digital natives.
“Gen Zers are addicted to their smartphones”.
“Gen Zers this”.
“Gen Zers that”.
I don’t think it’s fair to look at it that way because there’s never been a time Generation Z was without technology.
Maybe, except for those born in the late 1990s.
Asides from that, this generation grew up with technology, internet devices and social media.
According to a Gen Z survey in the United Kingdom by Statista,
- 94% use a smartphone
- 81% use a laptop
- 54% use a gaming console
- 47% use a tablet
- 40% use a desktop P.C. and
- 18% use a smartwatch.
The use of technology is positively changing the workforce by enhancing speed and productivity.
Because of this, companies try to explore this trait when looking to hire employees.
They desire flexible work-rates
As young people, Gen Zers want to live their best lives.
And by that, I mean not wanting to be tied down or become workaholics.
Millennials are more experienced and ready to settle down, unlike Gen Zers who want to test different career options.
You are more likely to find Gen Zers applying for remote and hybrid jobs than on-site jobs.
Let’s not forget the majority of people who make up Generation Z.
I’m talking about students!
To sum it all up, about 75% of Gen Zers say that flexibility is the first thing they look for in a workplace.
Summary
Generation Z is not just a bunch of lazy, privileged young adults but, directly and indirectly, makes a positive impact in the workplace.
They are;
- Born creatives
- Very expressive
- Energetic
- Digital natives
- Keen on flexible work rates
Some other characteristics they showcase in the workplace are:
- Competitiveness
- Entrepreneurial spirit
- Multitasking
- Risk-taking e.t.c
These are characteristics that increase productivity in the workplace.
More recruiters should make an effort to recruit talents from this generation.
