Gen Z expectations are reshaping the workforce.
What do employers need to know to stay competitive?
Gen Z has Different Priorities and More Pessimism
Pessimism is defined as an attitude of hopelessness toward life and existence, coupled with a vague general opinion that negativity dominates the world. Career pessimism is a growing concern, particularly with the Gen Z population (those between the ages of 13 and 27), and this should have us all a bit concerned.
The Gen Z workforce is facing a significant decline in overall career satisfaction and confidence, reflecting a shift in career expectations. This group entered the workforce during a global pandemic, has experienced recession fears and incredible inflation, geopolitical conflicts, and general societal discontent. The COVID pandemic forced us all to reprioritize work-life balance, but this ideology is all that individuals in Gen Z know. This doesn’t necessarily mean that Gen Z employees aren’t willing to work hard or go above and beyond, but it is indicative that the needs of employees will never go back to pre-pandemic priorities.
Another factor impacting this attitude of pessimism is the growing uncertainty about their future. Early career individuals are worried that they’ll never be able to purchase a home or even retire. In fact, this particular fear extends beyond Gen Z, impacting millennials which includes people in their 30’s and 40’s.
So how will this impact the workplace? Career pessimism can greatly influence workplace dynamics and company culture. Negativity can be contagious, and it only takes one bad apple to spoil the entire bunch. This can (and likely will!) result in higher turnover and lower productivity. Employers can combat this growing career pessimism in Gen Z by adapting their Gen Z recruiting strategies like fostering a culture of positivity, creating a healthy work environment with supportive leadership, and providing flexible work arrangements.
Work With Gen Z Instead of Against Them
Despite the challenges Gen Z’s are experiencing right now, there’s a lot a lot to be excited about with this generation. They are a group built on resilience and hardships and are more technologically advanced than any other generation. Gen Z’s are exceptionally pragmatic. They’ve grown up with search engines and AI at their fingertips. They know how to figure things out, and quickly. Further, given the challenges they’ve encountered and embraced, they understand the importance of mental health and how to maintain healthy boundaries, which will serve them well as they grow their careers.
Gen Z’s values and expectations will certainly shape the future of work and I am excited to work alongside them and learn from each other. Looking to better attract, retain, and motivate Gen Z talent? I’d love to hear from you.
