Generation Z, also known as the ‘Digital Natives’” is the generation born between the mid-1990s to the early 2010s. They are the first generation to have grown up in a connected world, and also the latest additions to the job market today.
“Understanding and implementing these values will be absolutely key for businesses to retain their staff in the future”, says Careermap Founder and Director, Simon Bell. With that in mind, what exactly are their motivations and values within the workplace?
Social justice and responsibility
One of the values that Gen Z cares deeply about is social justice. They are passionate about advocating for the rights of marginalised groups and promoting equality in society today. Therefore, it makes sense that a large number of Gen Z want to work for companies that represent their own values.
Companies that actively take steps to address problems in society are showing future employees that they take responsibility for their impact on the planet and society. This includes prominent issues today like environmentalism. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of an organisation is an essential part of this, which involves reducing waste and promoting the use of renewable energy.
Remember, young people today are not afraid to hold companies accountable for their environmental practices and are willing to make changes to their own lifestyles to reduce their carbon footprint. Promoting schemes like cycling to work is a key way that companies can demonstrate their commitment to reducing the carbon footprint. Providing incentives to employees for these initiatives is extremely important.
Making a positive impact on the local community has also been shown to be important to Gen Z, which is something that workplaces can promote. Many companies offer paid volunteering days as part of their benefits package to employees, which is definitely something worth considering.
Authenticity
It may sound simple, but being authentic is absolutely essential to gain the trust of Gen Z, not only as employees but as customers. Being transparent about what you do as an organisation attracts Gen Z workers, who generally value honesty and integrity. As a business, if you can communicate clearly about what you can offer as an employer you’re on the right track.
Gen Z values openness within an organisation, such as a clear career path and line of communication between management and employees. They want to know what an organisation can offer from the outset and what steps they can take to progress. This can involve beginning as an apprentice, and then moving on to management roles in the future.
As an organisation, being honest and open with external stakeholders like customers is also extremely important. Most people want to work for a reputable organisation, but this is particularly important to Gen Z. This links back to the earlier point about social responsibility, those which demonstrate their values and have a reputation for integrity are more likely to attract and retain top talent. They value authenticity in communication and want their leaders to be transparent and upfront about the company’s direction and strategy.
A sense of community
Community is also a value that Gen Z holds in high regard. This generation is highly connected and values the sense of belonging that comes from being a part of a community.
The workplace is one of the main places people interact socially with others, so creating this sense of community and belonging is a good motivator for Gen Z. They are passionate about building relationships with others and creating meaningful connections. Employers can take steps to build this sense of community within a team by organising away days and team bonding sessions.
Work these days is a social occasion, and many lasting friendships are formed through the workplace. Members of Gen Z want to be part of a workplace that encourages and fosters this.
The potential for growth
Gen Z also values learning and growth opportunities. They want to work for companies that offer professional development programmes, relevant training opportunities, and mentorship programmes. They are eager to learn new skills and acquire knowledge that will help them grow in their careers.
This can come in the form of organised training programmes like apprenticeships which offer professional qualifications. It can also mean allowing employees time off their regular job to engage in online training or courses. Gen Z employees aren’t usually content to stay in one continuous role for much of their career, and are actively looking for ways they can improve themselves both personally and professionally.
Companies that prioritise this kind of employee development and invest in their growth tend to have higher employee retention rates among Gen Z employees.
Flexible working
A job that enables employees to be flexible with their working hours is key for Gen Z. This involves being able to work from home. Research has shown that 88% of Gen Z said they would choose a job that offered working from home and flexible working over a higher salary. Gen Z value their personal time and prioritise it alongside their work.
Flexible work arrangements, like working from home, allow Gen Z to balance their work and personal lives. Did you know that companies that offer such flexibility also tend to have higher employee satisfaction rates among Gen Z employees? Although important, financial motivations are not the only things Gen Z considers when choosing a career and workplace.
Jesse Pitts has been with the Global Banking & Finance Review since 2016, serving in various capacities, including Graphic Designer, Content Publisher, and Editorial Assistant. As the sole graphic designer for the company, Jesse plays a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of Global Banking & Finance Review. Additionally, Jesse manages the publishing of content across multiple platforms, including Global Banking & Finance Review, Asset Digest, Biz Dispatch, Blockchain Tribune, Business Express, Brands Journal, Companies Digest, Economy Standard, Entrepreneur Tribune, Finance Digest, Fintech Herald, Global Islamic Finance Magazine, International Releases, Online World News, Luxury Adviser, Palmbay Herald, Startup Observer, Technology Dispatch, Trading Herald, and Wealth Tribune.