Unbound by old standards
Gen Z is upending stigma and redrawing the boundaries of social norms. Topics formerly considered impolite or taboo, such as gender and sexuality, personal satisfaction with life and career choices, financial income, and psychological wellbeing, are commonplace conversation starters for this age group.
More than 90% of them place authenticity, or being true to oneself, among their highest values. They reject perfectionism in favor of realism, expecting inclusion and a sense of belonging they believe shouldn’t have to be earned. They’re born skeptics and shrewd observers, unafraid to question the status quo, and they’re not so sure about the long-term payoff of higher education that comes with a paper degree and a very real pile of debt.
Not surprisingly, only 34% of Gen Z believe they can “trust” large organizations or the federal government. They’re more likely to put their faith in individuals and small, localized entities they can actively engage with. And their spending habits follow suit, with 59% reporting they care about purchasing from companies that reflect their values.
Hiring companies should be aware that corporate transparency, authenticity and integrity will be assessed by Gen Z with a level of awareness that’s both unique to this generation and broadly shared among them, thanks in large part to their use of social media.
FAQs
Gen Z exhibits unique values and behaviors different from previous generations. Gen Z's consumer behaviors are reshaping various industries with their digital-first approach and demand for personalized, ethical, and inclusive brand experiences. They also significantly influence market trends and ethos.
How do you empower Gen Z? ›
By developing trust, improving communications, and promoting team collaboration, HR professionals can help younger workers hone competencies needed to advance their careers. In the past few years, Gen Z has started to make its presence known in the workforce.
How is Gen Z influenced? ›
4 major influences on the happiness of Gen Zers
Purpose and meaning. Basic needs and security. Negative emotions and social pressure. Positive social connections.
What impact does Generation Z have on society? ›
Gen Z emphasizes their diversity and inclusivity. This generation tends to reject traditional labels and embraces a more fluid understanding of identity, which impacts cultural products, marketing strategies, and workplace dynamics.
Why is it important to understand generation? ›
Understanding what drives generational differences strengthens our understanding of how attitudes are shaped and offers an indication of what the future holds for each of us!
What can Gen Z teach us? ›
Despite Gen Z occasionally being labeled as too soft, I genuinely believe there's a wealth of wisdom and lessons older generations can glean from us.
- Embracing Authenticity: ...
- Tech Wizards: ...
- Social Justice Warriors: ...
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: ...
- Open-Mindedness: ...
- Mental Health Advocacy: ...
- Global Connectivity:
How do you inspire Generation Z? ›
Keep Gen Z Employees Engaged at Work
- Offer Work From Home Opportunities. ...
- Regular Communication. ...
- Opportunities for Collaboration. ...
- Work Culture. ...
- Motivational Gifts and Rewards For Gen Z.
Which motivation is the most important to Gen Z? ›
1. Purposeful Work: Gen Z is motivated by a sense of purpose. They seek jobs that align with their values and contribute to a greater cause. They want to help figure out ways to better the world and like when their job and tasks contribute to something bigger.
Is Gen Z the most influential generation? ›
But one generation trumps them all when it comes to both digital fluency and dependency: Gen Z—the generation born between 1996 and 2015. This generation has never known a world without the Internet, and in many ways, they're at the leading edge of shaping its future.
What really matters to Gen Z? ›
Gen Z cares about mental health and work-life balance
Having a work-life balance and maintaining mental and physical health is also important to Gen Z. “They're placing a value on the human experience and recognizing that life is more than work,” Katz said.
They are pragmatic and value direct communication, authenticity and relevance. They also value self-care. They may be more likely than older people were when they were the age of the Gen Zers to question rules and authority because they are so used to finding what they need on their own.
How does Gen Z contribute to society? ›
Generation Z, or "Gen Zers," are known for having a strong sense of social justice and promoting diversity in all areas of society. They use their voices and platforms, such as social media and online communities, to advocate for marginalized communities and push for change.
What is the most important thing to Gen Z? ›
Gen Z is known for being resourceful, independent learners who value diversity and inclusive culture and place a priority on well-being and mental health in the workplace. They are fiscally conservative with a keen focus on investing and income.
What is the importance of Gen Z? ›
Gen Z (or Generation Z) grew up with rapid digital changes. As teens, Gen Zers experienced the boom of smartphones, wearables, and virtual assistants, among other disruptive tech. This immersion makes them open to integrating new technology into their lives. Gen Z is already using AI in their daily lives.
Why does Gen Z matter and what boards should know? ›
As boards consider public commitments and efforts of their companies, understanding expectations and how management is communicating with Gen Z employees and consumers is critical. Gen Z also prioritizes inclusion and social justice and expects to hold companies accountable as employers and product providers.
How important is identity to Gen Z? ›
Identity Crisis and how to fit in. Gen Z craves for attention and validation for many reasons — motives that I can only imagine. Maybe it's because we see other people getting that same validation all the time, and we feel like we're missing out while being our current selves, hence the need for change.
Why is content important for Gen Z? ›
A significant 78% of Gen Z individuals turn to TikTok and Instagram to find content that is either funny or entertaining. Given that 'Zillennials' are identified as the most stressed generation, it's unsurprising that they gravitate towards content that lightens the mood.