Generations at work (Part 4)

Generations at Work [Part 4] 

Welcome, Generation Z

Suggested Introduction: Where do the years go? Already individuals born in the mid to late 1990s are beginning to enter the workplace. This is a unique generation, which has grown up entrenched in technology. This results in a specialized skill set, as well as a particular set of challenges. Ensure that your company is equipped to best utilize the young employees who are starting to infiltrate offices around the world.

Article Title: Effectively Work with Your Youngest Employees

The youngest and largest generation makes up 25% of the population (more than Baby Boomers or Millennials). Generation Z is entering the workforce in both part-time after school and summer jobs, and in early careers right out of high school. A large number are in the midst of their college careers or in their first post-graduate positions.

While people may say that this group born between 1995 and 2012 will try to completely change how we work, early reports show that this is not necessarily true. It is also very easy to try and think of them as just another group of Millennials. And while they share more similarities than differences with generations before them, Generation Z tends to have different thoughts on work process and collaboration than Millennials.

Generation Z is not interested in gig work. After witnessing their parents go through a recession, Generation Z wants steady paychecks. They value diversity, and are pragmatic, prepared, and focused. Job satisfaction is high on their list of career priorities. Generation Z is competitive and expects to work their way up the corporate ladder. They also crave flexibility in their work schedule and the ability to travel.

As the first generation of truly digital natives, Generation Z is accustomed to customizing every aspect of their lives. This desire for personalization will carry over into their careers. They will want to create their work environments—including their job descriptions. They will also capitalize on technology to be more productive and innovative. Do not be surprised if they are able to accomplish much more work in a shorter period of time.

The true effect Generation Z will have on the workplace will not be known for several years. However, it is safe to say that they have already begun to make themselves heard by their leaders and colleagues. Understanding their values of job satisfaction and financial stability—along with their desires for flexibility and customization—will help your organization capitalize on the talents of the youngest members of the workforce.

Gary Vice is sought out by leaders in Software and Services who recognize the need to attract the industry’s best talent.  Through Strategic Recruiting Partners’ extensive network of relationships, they are able to identify high level opportunities for well qualified candidates.  To discover how this process can benefit your job search, simply reply to this email or call Gary at 469.402.4008.