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A New Generation Arrives at the Workplace

Do you find it difficult to distinguish the differences between the four generations in the workplace?

If so, it’s understandable. The naming process for the different generations has become an alphabet soup.

The bad news is that this naming trend continues as a fifth generation arrives in the workplace.

Researchers did not spend much time thinking about a name for this dynamic generation. They simply gave them the next available letter in our standard alphabet.

The newest generation called Generation Z (Gen Z) is gradually making its way into the workplace.

Gen Z follows the two generations before them: Generation Y (Millennials) and Generation X.

As Gen Z makes its way out of school and into the workforce, you should not underestimate them: Gen Z is a force to be reckoned with.

To work effectively with Gen Z, you’ll need to understand them.

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Who is Generation Z

So, who is Generation Z?

A review of Internet sources shows various start dates for Gen Z. Pew Research Center, however, considers 1997 to be their starting date with their end date undetermined as of 2019. Since this initial research by Pew Research Center, other sources such as the United States Census Bureau use an ending date of 2012. So, for the purpose of this article I’ll use the birth period of 1997 through 2012 for Gen Z.

Gen Z are primarily the children of Generation X.

Their Generation X parents raised Gen Z to be independent and able to figure things out for themselves. This causes Gen Z to need less positive reinforcement (as opposed to Millennials).

Gen Z is already a record breaking generation! In the United States, they are the most racially and ethnically diverse generation. Globally, they have become the largest generation.

Gen Z also values education, but even here Gen Z is choosing their own path on how to get their education. A recent study shows that Gen Z wants “shorter, more affordable, career-connected education pathways.” The results of this study is an example of how Gen Z is not a go along to get along generation. To obtain outcomes that they consider to be more equitable, sustainable, or beneficial, they have no problem doing things their way.

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Influential Events that Shaped Generation Z

Like the four generations before them (Generation Y, Generation X, Boomers, and Veterans), Gen Z’s life experiences influence how they view, experience and react to the world around them.

With no experience in a pre-digital world, Gen Z members are digital natives!

In fact, Gen Z has never lived in a world where the Internet did not exist. They were literally born in the digital age. As a result, global events have actively shaped this generation’s view of the world.

Gen Z has grown up in a time of turbulence and instability mixed with hope for a better future. Disruption and change have been the norm.

15 influential events that shaped Gen Z are the following:

• Terrorism and War
• Social Networking
• Smart Phones/Mobile First
• Great Recession
• Text Messaging
• Gun Violence
• Election of Barack Obama
• Shared Family Responsibilities
• Climate Change
• Always Wired Connectivity
• Volunteerism
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Arab Spring Democracy Movements
• Gender Equality
• Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

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What is the Generation Z Personality

Like the four generations before them, Gen Z has its own personality that is formed from its life experiences.

Being digital natives in a time of always wired connectivity, Gen Z has a global perspective. This makes this generation comfortable with making friends, communicating openly, and agitating for change in online social communities.

In fact, Gen Z is not limited by local or even national events. Global events have and do influence how they see and react to the world.

Gen Z members are cosmopolitans who are willing and able to mobilize across international borders to effect change. Connecting to this broader global experience, has put Gen Z in search of the truth behind things. Gen Z wants authenticity in their life experiences.

This broader global experience with its economic uncertainty and social disruption also gives Gen Z an appreciation for pragmatism. This is evident in how they approach life as they enter adulthood.

For example, Gen Z is both financially cautious and entrepreneurial. Gen Z wants security but they also want a sustainable environment.

Finally, Gen Z has a different view of diversity than other generations. They don’t tolerate diversity or even accept it; rather they expect it. Diversity is their life experience.

For example, in their report, What if the next big disruptor isn’t a what but a who?, the professional services firm Ernst & Young explains Gen Z’s view on diversity this way:

Remarkably, Gen Z has also grown up amid unprecedented tolerance. Most can’t remember a time when there wasn’t an African-American president and a woman wasn’t a serious contender. President Obama took office before any of them had reached 12 years of age.

Gen Z is entrepreneurial, socially expecting, environmentally conscious, and realistic. They are well informed and vocal. They value authenticity and individual expression.

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Conclusion

The key to management is understanding your employees and what they value and adjusting your leadership style appropriately.

While Gen Z is a diverse generation of many individuals, its members do share some common characteristics and values.

Your ability to get the best from your Gen Z employees as they enter the workplace will be easier if you align your leadership style and management practices with their values.

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Video: 15 Influential Events that Shaped Generation Z

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Quiz: Understanding Generation Z

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Generations in the Workplace Article Series