How Gen Z Will Change Leadership

As each new generation enters the workplace, the old way of doing things is thrown out the window and new changes are made to the work environment. As Gen Z enters the workplace, they bring with them a new set of values and expectations for their careers and leadership. Unlike some generations before, Gen Z sees a job as a means to an end, not a part of their identity. This means that if a job doesn’t fit with their aspirations or values, they are far less likely to put up with it. This generation is going to change how the workplace operates, and current leaders must change with them. We put together some of the ways that we believe Gen Z will change leadership in the workplace.

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Emphasis on Impact

Members of Gen Z want to feel a sense of mission and purpose in their work. They want to understand the deeper reasoning behind their work and make contributions that have a positive impact. Appreciation goes a long way with this generation, as 96% of Gen Z employees emphasise the importance of feeling appreciated in their workplace. What does this mean for leaders? It’s time to move away from the expectation of employees completing job requirements without question to giving them a deeper understanding of the “why” behind tasks and their overall significance for your organisation.

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Flexible Working

Gen Z grew up in the age of technology, and they have no problem using it for their work. Not only do they not mind working remotely — many prefer it. The ability to work remotely is a non-negotiable aspect of a job for most of the generation, with 90% expressing a preference for remote work when looking for new job opportunities. Because of this change in how and where work is done, leaders must reevaluate their expectations and justifications for what they expect from employees. This will allow them to effectively engage with and accommodate the preferences of Gen Z.

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Diversity and Inclusion

Inclusiveness and diversity are highly important to Generation Z in the workplace. Many members of the generation believe that a diverse workforce is crucial for innovation and problem-solving.They are the most diverse generation, in terms of both cultures and ideas, and they value workplaces that reflect this diversity. They are drawn to organisations that demonstrate a genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion, from hiring practices to company culture. To attract and retain Gen Z talent, companies must prioritise inclusiveness and diversity, ensuring diverse individuals not only join the organisation but also feel included, valued, and supported.

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Benefits and Support

Mental health and overall well-being in the workplace hold a larger importance for Gen Z than previous generations, with 73% saying that mental health support in their career is essential. They’re more likely to engage in conversations about mental health and expect their employers to place importance on their well-being. Leaders must embrace this change of values, and promote empathy and understanding in their workplace. This generation places importance on support and work-life balance, and it can even influence their choice of employer.