What Do We Need To Know About Gen Z As Leaders ?

The way to manage people keeps on changing from time to time. Managing Generation Z at a whole new level. If you are a Manager and you think in the same way as 10-15 years ago, it's really irrelevant.More than a quarter of the global workforce will be Generation Z by 2025 and more than a half of it will be Gen Z by 2030. As millennials, it's time to manage Gen Z and there should be a sea change in the style of management. Generation Z is a set of individuals which values purpose. It's vital for companies to recognize and embrace the unique skills, perspectives and expectations. They are a purpose driven and socially conscious generation.

Gen Z is the most digital savvy generation on the planet. Distinctive characteristics such as diverse thinking, valuing inclusivity, believing in transparency, focus on mental health are possessed by the Gen Z. Managing emotions is a challenge for Gen Z; however, they value experience than monetary benefits. One of the most essential characteristics this generations possesses is social awareness. Social awareness is quite strong among the Gen Z and they are quite adaptable and they are always on the look out for ways as t how they can improve as persons.

Knowing these characteristics of Gen Z and how should employers understand to engage them is absolutely crucial. The Generation Z looks for passive income avenues, they look for opportunities to invest, their collaboration and communication skills and these characteristics have made them a unique generation.?

What can leaders do to engage Generation Z ?

1. Create an inclusive workplace culture

Workplace inclusivity and authenticity are highly valued. Outreach programmes need to be organized since these instances are where they face diverse communities and have conversations and ultimately create inclusivity.

2. Keeping in line with the purpose and values of Gen Z

There is a tendency to retain Gen Z employees among organizations that align with the ethical values of Gen Z and contribute to societal and environmental causes on a positive note. Surveys have revealed that Gen Z are more skeptical and don’t believe companies are taking sufficient measures to create an inclusive work environment.

3. Create continuous learning and development opportunities?

Gen Z is a generation which looks to up skill themselves and is always on the look out for opportunities with better potential. Companies should take this factor seriously and ensure that comprehensive training programmes should be organized if they are to retain talent. It is recommended that companies roll out mentorship programmes which create clear paths for career progression.?Investment in skills development of Gen Z team members organisations can retain talent for a long term.?

4. Craft psychologically safe work environments that focuses on wok-life balance

Gen Z prefers work-life balance unlike other generations. A combination of hybrid, flexible work arrangements resonates strongly with the Generation Z. Therefore, remote work options offer them the opportunity to commit themselves for work while maintaining work-life balance; it is recommended that companies consider the option of remote work for the Gen Z due to this reason. They are digital natives and the way they think and act is different. Businesses require to invest in artificial intelligence (AI), embrace cutting edge tools, encourage innovation and prioritise digital communication while focusing on mental health and psychological safety to attract and retain the Gen Z.

The generation Z thinks about work in a different perspective from the generations that proceeded them. They look at work as a part of their life but not as the meaning in their lives. Gen Z prefers work to fit around the things they consider more important such as quality of life, time with friends or family and diverse experiences as travel.

Mentoring for Gen Z is a crucial factor. Research has found that Gen Z with mentors feel more optimistic. They are more than twice as likely as their peers to feel confident about their future.?Therefore, as leaders it’s essential to play the role of mentors in grooming Generation Z to become the future leaders of the world.?

If you are looking for a career breakthrough and ready to think global;?

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Wish You Success !

Sasanka Dias