We can't get around it; Generation Z, or Gen Z, is entering the job market and that brings many changes. Other generations and employers often look at this generation with disapproval, is that justified? So where does this negative image, including all the (pre)judgments, about this generation come from?
Why do other generations look at Gen Z in a negative way?
The generation before Gen Z, the Millennials or Generation Y, faced a very different situation when this generation entered the job market. Now we live in a time where the job market is tight, or in other words there is more work than people, but when the Millennials entered the job market there was a time of unemployment. Often earlier generations consider Gen Z privileged, spoiled and/or feel that Gen Z has an unrealistic view of the world. This is because Gen Z stands up for themselves and makes demands. But why is this seen as a problem? You could say because everyone is reasoning from their own perspective. Because the previous generation was in a different situation, where there was no place to make demands, the current generation is seen as privileged. Still, the generations will have to work together; but how? It can be looked at from a different perspective, namely that it is only right that Gen Z stands up for themselves and that they are in a position where this is possible. A subsequent generation need not carry the pain of the previous generation or be limited in their freedom to stand up for themselves, at least in this situation.
Gen Z in the workplace
Gen Z is known for being a generation that stands for change. Change can be scary and is not always desired, but change can also bring opportunities. Yes, they are more demanding, but they also bring with them many good qualities:
- Growing up in a digital world
- Socially engaged
- Commit to change
- Independent and ambitious
- Find fulfillment more important than salary
The new generation has grown up in the digital world, they know better than anyone how to deal with social media, the latest technology and associated software. They also feel responsible for - and committed to - change, which they do through social media, among other things. Gen Z'ers are ambitious and independent, which is reflected in the demand for development and growth opportunities with employers. In addition, salary does not play as big a role as with other generations. Gen Z prefers satisfaction and work atmosphere to salary.
What does Gen Z want to see in return from employers?
- Advancement and development opportunities
- Remote working and flexible working hours
- Good work/life balance
- Focus on sustainability
- Open communication
- Online visibility
The working atmosphere and fringe benefits are of great importance to Gen Z. They would like to see opportunities for growth and development in their employer and value a good work-life balance. As described earlier, Gen Z feels responsible for changing the world, so they also want to see sustainability reflected in employers. This generation stands up for itself and a work environment with open communication is important in this regard. Gen Z has grown up in a digital world, they can be found a lot online and on social media, so the online visibility of an organization is also important. After all, this is the way to reach this generation. Finally, Gen Z'ers generally lead busy lives; they feel responsible for changing the world, they experience a certain performance pressure, are always online and feel that certain social problems are placed on their shoulders as a burden. A consequence of this is the need for remote working or flexible working hours.
