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7 facts about Generation Z that companies should know

Generation Z, born between 1995 and 2010, presents challenges for companies with new demands like guidance, meaningful work, values, rewards, tech skills, work-life balance, and teamwork. Companies must adapt to create a suitable work environment for this new workforce.

7 facts about Generation Z that companies should know
In the coming years, the job market will be populated by Generation Z. The Digital Natives encompass the birth years from 1995 to approximately 2010. This poses challenges for companies, as the new workforce has new demands on their employers and the work environment.

1) Generation Z Needs Guidance

After finishing school, many young people find it difficult to choose a career path, as they have countless options available. Companies can support them by establishing early connections with potential candidates and providing guidance in career choices. Mentoring programs are also popular. At the same time, the World of Work study shows that 36% of respondents are open to a complete job change. They would like to switch industries, companies, and professions to gain new experiences. Therefore, employee retention also becomes a challenge for companies.

2) Companies Must Demonstrate Values

For Generation Z, entirely new factors play a crucial role in choosing their employer. Companies are expected to take on more responsibility for societal issues and environmental aspects. Besides climate change, topics like diversity and inclusion will become increasingly important for Generation Z, as shown in the Randstad Employer Brand study.

3) The Young Workforce Seeks Meaningful Work

According to the McDonald's Training Study 2019, 62% of young respondents are looking for a job that fulfills them and is enjoyable. They value this more as a life goal than financial independence and career success. They strive for recognition and want to make the world a better place. This demand should definitely be reflected in the tasks assigned to them.

4) Good Performance Should Be Rewarded

A result of the Universum Student Survey 2019 shows that the young workforce also seeks monetary recognition. Career choices often favor industries that promise high income and advancement opportunities. They are willing to accept a lower base salary initially. The trend is moving towards fair compensation in all areas.

5) The Young Are Not Lone Fighters

Personal communication within the team and with company management is important to Generation Z. Therefore, they prefer working on-site in the company rather than in home offices or co-working spaces, as found in the preliminary study "Generation Z and their expectations of the future working world." Despite their close connection to messenger services, the young workforce cannot imagine using them in a professional context and is also critical of constant availability.

6) Generation Z Relies on Their Tech Skills

According to the study "Gen Z: The future has arrived," 68% of the young generation are very confident in their technical abilities. The good news for companies is that they are willing to share this knowledge with older colleagues and support them in using technology. However, 75% of respondents demand the latest technology in the workplace.

7) Family and Career Must Be Compatible

For Generation Z, family is highly valued. Family planning must be compatible with their career, preferably even in part-time – as a result of the aforementioned preliminary study. Consequently, equality in aspects such as salary, parental leave, and flexible working hours is considered a given. Many views of the young workforce could also benefit previous generations, making it easier to create a good working environment for everyone. If you want to actively address this topic today, you will receive valuable recommendations for your company in my lecture "Generation Z."

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