Gen Z or “Generation Z” are people born between the years 1997- 2012. The oldest members of Gen Z have already entered the workforce, and they are a lot different in their perspectives and expectations from their predecessors- the millennials. Gen Z is a generation born into a world transformed by technology. Their generation is dominated by social media, networking, a concern for the environment, and a need for a great work-life balance. With Gen Z set to overtake the millennials both in terms of population and income by 2031, the future of work is bound to change. Here’s what Gen Z expects from their employers (and we couldn’t agree more) :
1. Livable salaries
Unlike older generations who could raise a family on a single income, inflation combined with lower wages have made it hard for younger generations to enter the workforce. During the 2020 pandemic, the entry-level jobs that were mostly occupied by Gen Z took the hardest hit. Consequently, the insecurity in the job market along with soaring costs of living has pushed Gen Z to look for organizations that pay a good wage. Employers will also have to offer competitive pay to attract the top talent in any niche.
2. Safe workplaces and psychological well being
Gen Z is a stress-averse generation who wants their employers to care for their psychological and emotional well-being. They also expect workplaces to be warm and welcoming with less conflict and politics, unlike the previous generations. Gen Z is a generation that is highly sensitive to stress as they are exposed to global challenges such as political instability, climate change concerns, and economic recessions. To attract and retain top talent, companies will have to enforce initiatives that cater to the emotional support of their employees.
3. Diverse and inclusive work environment
The younger generations are a group that grew up in a more diverse world than ever before. For Gen Z, respect, equality, and inclusion are a given and not just an idea. Increased immigration and movement of people across cultures and geographical boundaries have made it commonplace for the Gen Z generation to mingle with people from different backgrounds. The societal constructs of the previous generations no longer apply to the youngsters, and they expect to see the same at their workplace.
4. Employers who care for their well-being
Employers who care for physical, emotional, and financial well-being rank high in their employee value proposition. The 2020 pandemic and the subsequent exodus of many during the “great resignation” highlighted the need for employers to care for their employees. Job insecurity and stress made employees across different cohorts question whether their jobs fulfilled their lives. For Gen Z, an employer who provides a healthy work environment, financial stability, and great work-life balance is worth working for.
5. Ethical leadership
Gen Z is a generation of youngsters who grew up watching the unethical behaviors of corporations and leaders in high positions. Everything from the #MeToo movement to the high-profile scandals and frauds in the recent years has shaped one of their most important demands- ethical leadership. They demand employers mend moral blind spots and ensure the organizations they are working for have a positive effect on the world.
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