Gen Z in a Boomer workplace?

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Gen Z in a Boomer workplace?

Gen Z workers may not be able to slide seamlessly into a workplace that was designed for Baby Boomers.

Managing Gen Z – those workers born between the late 90s and the early 2010s – is proving to be a challenge for even the most hardened people managers and supervisors. Some managers view Gen Z employees as ‘unprofessional and immature’, but is that a fair assessment?

Why does Gen Z act so differently to previous generations?

Gen Z workers grew up as digital natives and are used to instant access to information and constant online communication. This can make the traditional, hierarchical communication methods we’re used to in the workplace feel slow, inefficient and…well, kind of boring.

Gen Z workers have different values to preceding generations. They have a far greater focus on work-life balance, their own mental health, and their personal values and morals.

They want work that has a purpose and a transparent, flexible working environment, often prioritising these factors over a traditional career ladder.

As a result, they may challenge established norms in the workplace, which can be perceived as immaturity or unprofessionalism by older generations.

4 ways to get the best from your Gen Z workers

If you’re used to a certain way of working, and an immovable way of managing younger employees, you’re unlikely to get the best work from your Gen Z workers.

As a good people manager, your responsibility is not just to enforce a static way of working. It’s also to look for ways to refine, update and improve your processes, so they work well with all generations in the workplace.  

To inspire your Gen Z workers:

Provide frequent and highly specific feedback

Gen Z thrives on real-time feedback, not annual reviews. Be direct, specific and consistent in your praise and constructive criticism. This helps to guide your younger workers’ development and show them that their work is valued – a key driver for Gen Z workers.

Embrace technology and modern AI tools

As digital natives, Gen Z workers expect to use modern technology in the workplace. Give them user-friendly digital tools, collaborative online platforms and AI apps to help them work more efficiently and feel like they work in a supportive, tech-savvy environment.

Connect work to a larger purpose

Gen Z wants to feel that their work matters. Be clear how their tasks contribute to the company's mission and its positive social impact. Get your workers involved in community projects and charitable work. This gives their work meaning beyond just a pay check, increasing motivation.

Offer Clear Growth and Development Paths

This generation is ambitious about career progression and skill development – they want to hit their career goals fast. Provide a clear career path, mentorship opportunities and access to skills training. This gives Gen Z a tangible path to growth within the company.

For a successful team, and to encourage the talents of your Gen Z workforce, your management style must be both agile and flexible. That means keeping up to date with the latest in people management and HR thinking