As the baby boomers retire and Gen-Xers move up the corporate ladder, there is a new generation entering the workforce – Gen-Z. Born between 1997 and 2012, this tech-savvy and socially conscious group of individuals have extremely high expectations when it comes to their workplace, including opportunities for growth and development.
In this blog post, we will explore the key expectations of Gen-Z employees and how to create a learning culture that is appealing to them.
Key Workplace Expectations of Gen-Z Employees
Gen-Z is the first generation to have grown up with digital technology, social media, and instant access to information. Accordingly, they have different expectations about the workplace compared to the previous generations. Traditional workplaces, where hierarchy and bureaucracy prevail, don’t appeal to Gen-Z workers.
Unlike the Baby Boomers, who believed in job security and loyalty, and the Gen-X generation, who craved a work-life balance & professional progress, Gen-Z & Millennial employees look for flexibility, ethics, values alignment, career progression, work-life integration, and a sense of purpose at their workplace. The work environment should be diverse & inclusive, giving them opportunities to learn, a chance to grow, and the freedom to have their voices heard.
The Unique Preferences and Expectations of Gen-Z in Personal and Professional Development
Gen-Z wants more than just a job. They also desire a career and personal development. They are interested in opportunities where they can develop their skills and advance their career within the organization easily and quickly. Therefore, traditional training programs are not enough to retain them, and companies need to adopt modern methods of learning, such as online resources, digital lessons, and gamification. Additionally, one of the most significant factors in what Gen-Z seeks in professional development is the ability to make meaningful contributions to social causes. They are looking for companies that value and promote social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and diversity in the workplace.
Tips for Tailoring Learning and Development Initiatives to Attract and Retain Gen-Z Talent:
Since Gen-Z grew up with technology, you need to keep up with the latest tools and methods of learning. They expect learning to be social, mobile, and interactive. Therefore, you need to adopt multimedia content, micro-courses, gamification, e-learning, and collaborative learning tools that are easily accessible on mobile devices. Additionally, you should offer opportunities for hands-on learning, such as job shadowing, mentorship programs, and on-the-job training.
Strategies for Aligning Your Learning Culture with the Needs and Values of Gen-Z Workers:
The heart of any successful learning culture is not only its content but also support from all levels of the organization. Engaged managers who offer regularly scheduled feedback and recognition, leadership who continually emphasize and model a growth mindset, and support from your peers, are all necessary parts of a highly functioning learning culture. As important, Gen-Z workers value transparency and open communication. Emphasizing the “why” behind processes and decisions and regularly soliciting feedback allows you to build a culture of trust and transparency that will benefit all employees.
Gen-Z values diversity and inclusion and prefers a work environment that reflects those values. This means offering opportunities for employees from all walks of life to learn and develop. Consider creating affinity groups or employee resource groups that provide a space for individuals with shared backgrounds or experiences to connect and learn from one another.
According to recent studies, Gen Z and Millennials currently make up approximately 38% of the global workforce, and this percentage will rise to about 58% by 2030.
If you want to meet the expectations of your present and future employees, you need to create a learning culture that is aligned with their values, preferences, and expectations.
Adopting modern tools of learning, tailoring your programs to be hands-on and socially responsible, promoting engagement and growth within the organization, and building an environment that fosters collaboration will ensure that ALL of your talents thrive in your business.
Meeting Gen-Z workplace expectations may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it’s not as complicated as it may seem. By offering opportunities for growth and development that align with their personal and professional values, employers can successfully attract and retain top Gen-Z talent. Remember to adapt your learning culture to accommodate their unique preferences and tailor development initiatives to their interests and passions. With these changes, your company will be well on its way to thriving in the new age of the workforce.
If you’ve read this far and are now thinking this guide is just not cutting it, you can always book a short, no-pressure Discovery Call with Janifer. No slimy sales or marketing tactics here – when you complete our short intake form, your answers will lead our convo so that together, we can whip up a kick-ass consulting and support plan that’s totally customized to your budget and specific business needs. Schedule a call NOW.
