Generation
Baby
Millennials
Boomers
X
Z
Business Focus
WORK
AMBITIOUS
GLOBAL
CYNICAL
CENTRIC
| | ENTREPRENEURIAL
SELF
| SELF-CONFIDENT
RELIANT
| INDEPENDENT
| ENTREPRENEURIAL
| | PROGRESSIVE
OPEN-MINDED
| GOAL ORIENTED
40%
Tech-savvy
Gen Zers who want to
intereact with their boss daily
or several times each day
Welcomed Benefits
84%
BO
RN
BE A T F W
E R
EN
BO
RN
TE
1946
1964
1965
1976
1977 1997
& 1997
Gen Zers who expect their
employer to provide
formal training
Myth
Gen Z only communicates online.
Reality
With their introduction to the workforce, Generation Z is
bound to bring change. As with the generations before them,
they are going to bring their own ideas, values and needs to
the workplace. Although it’s too soon to tell what these are,
Generation Z has expressed that they’re looking for employers
emphasizing work-life balance, much like Generation X
and Millennials. Along with work-life balance comes
communication and human interaction. A survey reports
that 90% of Generation Z respondents expressed that they
want more human interaction woven into their work.**
And when it comes to the success at work, failure is
seen as an opportunity for growth and innovation.
In Conclusion
When thinking about different generations, avoid the trap of
assuming that these traits lack generational overlap. While each
generation has defining features, there are concepts that each
can relate to and appreciate. What unifies all generations is the
desire to work in a positive culture where they are appreciated,
and their employer is looking out for their best interests.
Flexible
Schedules
Paid Volunteering
Opportunities
Here are a few tips on motivating
a multigenerational workforce:
• Understand individual work styles and how your
employees like to be recognized for their accomplishments.
• Ask them so you don’t make assumptions or have
a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Promote a positive work-life balance for
your employees. Gather and listen to feedback
from employees on how to improve.
• Empower your employees by supporting and
implementing new ideas your employees have.
Challenge and encourage your employees to do their best.
Having a diverse set of workers with varying experience
opens the door to foster collaborative relationships and
a strong company culture. Strong employee bonds make for
a strong business, and happiness in the workplace can lead to
growth for your company. Take the time to get to know your
employees and have your employees get to know each other.
And when in doubt, remember to communicate. It can make
all the difference.
* https://agewave.com/what-we-do/landmark-research-and-consulting/research-studies/giving-in-retirement-americas-longevity-bonus/
** https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/failure-drives-innovation-according-to-ey-survey-on-gen-z-300714436.html
10
SPRING / SUMMER 2020