The Currency of Gen Z: Purpose

Earlier this week, I attended the MCAA WiMI conference in Cleveland, Ohio, and came away with a better understanding of where we stand in the trades today.

I was incredibly impressed by the strength and determination of the women present, which made it clear how crucial it is to support and empower women in the trades to move our industry forward.

One of the many enlightening conversations was with two students from Kent State University’s Construction Management program, Alison and Gina, at lunch. Gina is the recipient of the Ferguson Women in the Mechanical Industry Scholarship, and both students are incredibly smart and talented—exactly the kind of A-players who can transform companies.

We discussed what is most important to them as they enter the workforce. Interestingly, while many companies focus on salary as a primary draw, Alison and Gina highlighted other crucial factors that determine their choice of employer: opportunities, purpose and vision, growth and development, employee investment, culture, and relationships.

So, what do top workplace companies do better than their competition? There are many things, but here are three that address what today's talent is looking for:

1. Cultivate a Vision and Purpose

Top companies understand that a compelling vision and a strong sense of purpose are fundamental. Employees want to feel that their work contributes to something larger than themselves. As Gina put it, "I would rather get paid a little less than to be unhappy." These companies communicate their mission clearly and consistently, ensuring every employee understands their role in achieving it. This sense of purpose creates a motivated and aligned workforce where everyone is working towards common goals.

2. Invest in Employee Growth and Development

Unlike their competitors, the best companies see employee development as an investment, not an expense. They offer continuous learning opportunities, mentorship programs, and career advancement pathways. Alison remarked, "You can totally tell the difference between companies that train and invest in development and the ones that don’t." This investment in growth fosters loyalty and keeps employees engaged and innovative. Employees feel valued and supported, knowing that their company is committed to their personal and professional development.

3. Foster a Healthy and Trusting Culture

Culture and relationships are paramount. Top companies don’t just discuss having a great culture—they live it. Alison and Gina emphasized that "every company talks about how good they are and their culture is, but when you walk around, you can feel who is authentic and who just talks a good game." These companies create open environments where communication is nurtured, and relationships and trust are built. Employees can sense authenticity and are likelier to stay with a company that genuinely cares about their well-being. These companies prioritize building strong, supportive team relationships, leading to higher morale and productivity.

In conclusion, while competitive salaries are important, the best companies recognize that true success lies in offering more than just financial incentives. They cultivate a clear vision and purpose, invest in their employees' growth and development, and foster a healthy, trusting culture. By doing so, they attract and retain top talent, ensuring long-term success and a thriving, innovative workplace. This focus on purpose and investment in people is the true currency of Gen Z in the modern workforce.