Janifer Wheeler The JOYFull BadAss Logo

Cracking the Code of Gen-Z Workplace Expectations | Wheelhouse Learning Solutions

Gen-Z is taking over the workforce, and y’all, they are shaking things up! I should know – my son was born in 1998. 

This group of digital natives has grown up in a world of instant gratification and constant connectivity. With this in mind, it’s no wonder their workplace expectations are so different from those of previous generations. 

In this post, we’ll explore those expectations and why they’re important to understand. We’ll also dive into how their parenting and education have shaped their views of work. So, buckle up and prepare to learn how to keep up with the next wave of workers.

What are Gen-Z’s Workplace Expectations?

The first thing we need to talk about is what Gen-Z’s workplace expectations actually are. Here are some of the most common ones:

Flexibility: Gen-Z wants to work from anywhere at any time. They want the option to work remotely, use their own devices, and set their own hours.

Meaningful Work: Gen-Z wants to feel like they’re making a difference. They’re not content just to do a job; they want to understand its purpose.

Diversity and Inclusion: Gen-Z values diversity and wants to work in an inclusive environment of all people, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation.

Work-Life Balance: Gen-Z wants to have a life outside of work. They’re not willing to sacrifice their personal time for the sake of their job.

Training and Development: Gen-Z wants to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. They’re looking for employers to invest in their development and help them advance their careers.

Why are Gen-Z’s Expectations So Different?

So, why are Gen-Z’s expectations so different from those of previous generations? The answer lies in how they were raised and educated. 

Unlike previous generations, Gen-Z has grown up in a world where technology has always been a part of their lives. They’re used to having instant access to information and being able to communicate with anyone, anywhere, at any time. This has made them incredibly adaptable and resourceful, but it’s also given them a different perspective on work.

Gen-Z has seen their parents and older siblings struggle through two recessions, multiple layoffs, stagnant wages, and Covid-19. 

They don’t want to end up in the same position. They want to work for companies that will value their skills, invest in their development, and provide them with opportunities for advancement. They’re not just looking for a job; they’re looking for a career.

How Can Small Businesses Keep Up with Gen-Z’s Expectations?

If you’re a small business owner without a learning leader or trainer, you might be wondering how you can keep up with Gen-Z’s expectations. Here are a few tips:

Offer Flexibility: Consider allowing your employees to work remotely or set their own hours. Determine if it really matters where & when the work gets done as long as it’s done.  This will show them that you trust them and value their work-life balance.

Provide Meaningful Work: Make sure your employees understand the purpose behind their work. Show them how their efforts make a difference to your customers and your community. 

Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Make sure your workplace is open and welcoming to everyone, regardless of their background. This will help you attract and retain diverse talent.

Invest in Training and Development: Offer your employees opportunities to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. This will help them feel valued and invested in your company.

Communicate Frequently: Keep your employees in the loop about what’s happening in your business. Gen-Z values transparency and open communication, so make sure you’re sharing information on a regular basis.

They also want meaningful and specific feedback regarding work performance, so consistent check-ins will go a long way toward building trust and loyalty with this generation.

How Can You Appeal to Gen-Z During the Hiring Process?

Finally, here are a few tips for appealing to Gen-Z during the hiring process:

Emphasize Your Company’s Purpose: Ensure your mission and values align with Gen-Z’s priorities. Highlight how your business makes a positive impact on the world.

Showcase Your Workplace Culture: Give candidates a glimpse into what it’s like to work at your company. Share photos and videos of your workplace, highlighting any perks or benefits you offer.

Show Them Opportunities for Growth: Let candidates know that there are opportunities for them to learn and advance within your company. This will help them see your company as a place where they can build a career, not just work a job.

Be Responsive: Gen-Z is used to instant communication, so make sure you’re responsive to their inquiries and follow up with them in a timely manner.

There you have it – a crash course on Gen-Z in the workplace. By understanding their expectations and how they were shaped, you can attract and retain top talent in this demographic. 

Flexibility, meaningful work, diversity and inclusion, training and talent development, and open communication, are the keys to creating a workplace that appeals to Gen-Z’s values. By emphasizing your company’s purpose, showcasing your culture, showing opportunities for growth, and being responsive during the hiring process, you’ll be able to attract the best Gen-Z candidates to join your team. 

Are you eager to foster a culture of learning that captivates and retains Gen-Z talent? Visit my padlet and connect here.

You can always book a short, no-pressure Discovery Call with Janifer. No slimy sales or marketing tactics here – when you complete our short intake form, your answers will lead our convo so that together, we can whip up a kick-ass consulting and support plan that’s totally customized to your budget and specific business needs. Schedule a call NOW.

Recent Post

Signup Newsletter

download the app
to UNLOCK
PRODUCTIVITY COACHING
IN YOUR POCKET!

Download the JOYFull BadApp