I just read an interesting article comparing Generation Y to the upcoming Generation Z. According to Dan Schawbel, founder of Millennial Branding and Author of Promote Yourself, the study of about 1,000 people across 10 countries including the United States reveals attributes that distinguish Gen Z and Gen Y employees. “Gen Z has a clear advantage over Gen Y because they appear to be more realistic instead of optimistic, are likely to be more career-minded, and can quickly adapt to new technology to work more effectively,” Schawbel said. “Additionally, since Gen Z has seen how much Gen Y has struggled in the recession, they come to the workplace better prepared, less entitled and more equipped to succeed.”
So what should we expect from the 16-20 year olds entering and soon to be entering the workforce? Here’s what I am most excited about. Gen Z prefers face-to-face communication over technology. Even though the Z-ers are still into technology, 53% answered that they prefer in-person communication over electronic. I think some of them may be actually getting sick of Facebook. Probably because too many of their parents are on it! For whatever reason, I am still excited because it is so important to service providers to be able to communicate face to face with their customers to really develop the relationships they need to be successful.
Another positive result, particularly in this economy is that money doesn’t seem to be the driving force for Gen Z. “Only 28% of Gen Z said money would motivate them to work harder and stay with their employer longer, as opposed to 42% of Gen Y.”
Managers should take note that more than half of both Gen Z and Gen Y feel that honesty is the most important quality for being a good leader. The study showed that the younger generations feel their leaders should really be able to clearly communicate the vision of the organization and their department. Remember, this is the age of instant gratification. They are used to having everything at their fingertips, so if we want to encourage the verbal communication it seems they are looking for, we better be good communicators. If you are not clear on the mission, value and expectations or your organization or department, get familiar. This generation won’t wait around for you to figure it out. Get in the know. Ask questions so you have a good understanding of your expectations. Then you will be able to articulate that with confidence and sincerity down the ranks. That’s how we can build a motivated and productive department with our X-ers and Z-ers.
If you want to see the whole study, read more here:http://millennialbranding.com/2014/geny-genz-global-workplace-expectations-study/
Thoughts…….. Contact me at abbe@TECResourceCenter.com