Generation Z and the Future of Media: Adapting to the Evolving Landscape of Talent and Technology

The media and entertainment industry faces a significant transformation as Gen Z professionals enter the scene. Born between 1997 and 2012, this generation is the most diverse and digitally connected cohort yet, bringing unique skills and expectations to the workplace. Entertainment executives and leaders must align their strategies with Gen Z's values and aspirations, in order to attract and retain this emerging talent pool.

Prioritize Work-Life Balance:

Gen Z is significantly invested in their mental health and well-being, therefore, they expect that companies facilitate a healthy workplace. Seventy percent seek jobs that allow them to prioritize personal time (Source: Deloitte, 2023). Encouraging a healthy work-life balance through flexible schedules and accessible mental health tools is key to employing and retaining Gen Z talent. Companies, like Ideas Collide, are now offering Wellness + Renewal Days, attracting Gen Z with their prioritization of employee health in the workplace.

Embrace Career Fluidity:

Gen Z's approach to careers is notably fluid, with 60% planning to leave their current jobs within the next five years (Source: Pew Research Center, 2023). They also often engage in a mix of jobs and side hustles, with 50% participating in additional income streams (Source: Upwork, 2022). To accommodate this, entertainment companies can offer flexible working arrangements and embrace unconventional career paths.

Leverage Social Media Investment:

Gen Z spends an average of 2 hours and 42 minutes daily on social media, making them the most engaged generation on these platforms (Source: Statista, 2023). Furthermore, 70% of Gen Z consider social media influencers trustworthy sources of information (Source: MarketingWeek, 2023). Given their investment in social media, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are integral to their career goals.

Provide Creative Freedom:

Gen Z thrives in environments that offer creative freedom, with 80% expressing interest in careers that allow them to embrace their artistic talents (Source: Adobe, 2022), while also maintaining a strong desire for innovation and experimentation (Source: Deloitte, 2023). Encouraging them to share ideas, experiment with new concepts, and explore innovative content creation approaches are crucial components in retaining them in the workforce.

Offer Ongoing Development:

Gen Z is committed to lifelong learning, with 70% actively seeking opportunities to acquire new skills and knowledge (Source: LinkedIn, 2023) and 60% earnestly pursuing mentorship (Source: Gallup, 2022). Investment in training, development programs, and mentorship opportunities are vital in supporting their career growth within the entertainment industry.

Foster Inclusivity and Diversity:

Gen Z is the most diverse generation, with 60% identifying as people of color (Source: Pew Research Center, 2023). At least 70% of Gen Z advocates for welcoming workplaces for all identities, displaying their commitment to inclusivity and representation (Source: Deloitte, 2023). The entertainment industry can elevate their hiring by emphasizing diversity and cultivating a culture that respects and represents all backgrounds. In doing so, it will become more appealing to its Gen Z talent pool.

Champion Technology:

Gen Z is the first generation to grow up with technology, with 90% owning smartphones and 70% owning laptops (Source: Pew Research Center, 2023). Therefore, they inherently value tech-savvy workplaces, as they are proficient in using technology for communication, collaboration, and content creation (Source: Microsoft, 2023). Incorporating technology throughout the workplace can enhance efficiency and appeal to this digitally-competent generation.

Recognize Gen Z's Preferences:

Gen Z is highly renowned for their preference for creativity, flexibility, and pursuit of a harmonious work-life equilibrium. Moreover, Gen Z is exceptionally entrepreneurial, with 80% expressing interest in starting their own businesses (Source: CNBC, 2022); therefore, autonomy in the workplace should be prioritized.

Adapting to Gen Z professionals' evolving preferences is essential for the media and entertainment industry’s continued endeavors. By facilitating a workplace that resonates with their values and aspirations, entertainment executives and leaders will be able to attract and retain this emerging talent pool, fostering innovation and success in the industry.

Unlock Your Potential as Our Operations and Logistics Manager

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• Avante-Garde: Be bold and creative.
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• Masterful: Always strive for excellence.

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About the Author

Javon Frazier is a visionary digital strategist, known for his profound expertise in the dynamic world of media and entertainment. With a diverse background spanning across film, television, music, games, web, mobile, and social media, Javon has established himself as a prominent figure in the industry.

As the founder and CEO of Maestro Media , Javon has spearheaded a groundbreaking company that specializes in creating innovative consumer products, including games and merchandise, curated by world-class artists, illustrators, and game creators. Under his leadership, Maestro Media has quickly risen to the forefront of the industry, capturing the hearts and minds of avid consumers with its unique and captivating offerings.

Beyond his exceptional work at Maestro Media , Javon is also a trailblazer in the realm of crowdfunding. With a track record of previous projects amassing over $15 million in funding, he has emerged as a respected leader in the crowdfunding space, leveraging his unparalleled expertise to bring groundbreaking ideas to life.

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