You must have seen those Instagram reels with trending audio and steps in which the company employees shake a leg. Or you might have come across certain Spotify podcasts run by young entrepreneurs. These people who are bringing a revolution in the modern workspace are none other than Generation Z, or as they are commonly referred to, Gen–Z. Born between 1997 and 2012, this generation has seen it all. They have witnessed the fall of cable TVs, the rise of OTT platforms, the evolution of smartphones and most importantly, a post-pandemic world.
While they are often berated for being too entitled and lazy to work, the reality is far from this painted picture. With their fresh perspective, they are already challenging the norms of the existing work culture. Prioritising mental health, having an open conversation with the employer, and employing unconventional yet quick methods of getting the work done is their strong suit.
There is a reason why Gen Z is called the ‘Digital Natives’ – and through this article, I will help you understand how this generation of independent yet resilient people has already begun to change the narrative and terms of work.
GEN–Z At Work
As a 2003 kid who has a bittersweet relationship with tech, I cannot deny the fact that technology is often an extended version of ourselves. It is so because we are the first generation to have grown up with touch screen phones, seen the rise of social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, as well as the recent introduction of AI in the world. So, it’s quite natural that when this generation enters the workforce, they would want to get quick replies to their e-mails, swift feedback from their managers, along with a casual chit chat with their seniors.
And let’s not forget Gen–Z’s contribution in sustaining the popularity of Teams and Zoom. It was due to their adaptability and the process to help others navigate through the video conferencing apps that even today, after the Covid-19 pandemic, many offices and schools still use these platforms to conduct their meetings and conferences. This dexterity, efficiency and adaptability shown by them is pushing companies to innovate faster. So, if a company wants to survive in today’s digital era, the adoption of today’s generation’s digital DNA is paramount.
Purpose-driven Work and Hybrid Work Culture
Gen Z is often misunderstood for its work ethic. Rose Marley, CEO of Co-operatives UK, remarked that the younger employees are keen to reshape the future of work, along with demanding that businesses not only prioritise people and planet, but also the purpose over pure profit. This is enough proof for people who harbour animosity towards Gen Z’s work ethic. Our generation is ardent to work for companies that stand for something meaningful – be it speaking against workplace harassment, mental health awareness or even about the gender pay divide. They are eager to know the reasoning behind the work they are doing and the purpose it would serve.
If purpose is important to Gen–Z, then so is their freedom. Doing remote internships and virtual jobs has made our generation quite flexible. We can now work from almost any part of the world, even during a trip with friends to Goa. Just kidding. No one wants to work in Goa, right? Anyways, the idea of sitting in a cubicle from 9-5 not only sounds boring but even dampens their creative spirit. And cafes, restaurants, as well as open spaces, are the living proof of it. At any time of day, you will find these locations flooded with groups of young people with their open laptops, a scribble pad and a cup of coffee to ease out their brainstorming sessions.
However, undermining these young people as naïve would be a mistake on your part. They are well-aware of financial planning, know their capabilities and capitalise upon them by doing freelancing and side gigs to support themselves. They try to strike a balance between their personal and professional lives. Moreover, employers have observed that Gen–Z shows up to take responsibility and accountability for their work. They are loyal, engaged and a productive workforce who work best when trust is shown in them.
The Hunger to Learn More
The biggest positive about Gen–Z is their efficiency and hunger to learn more. This generation is constantly upskilling itself by learning new courses and earning certifications in multiple skills. Unlike traditional career paths to which people stick for their whole lives, they are willing to experiment and change their careers mid-way. Juggling between their jobs and studies is a skill which they have learnt to master, and it has paid them well. You will find many youngsters who are working two jobs a day and end their day with a book and a pen in their hands.
This generation is also incredibly skilled at adapting to the market's needs. If new software is to be learnt, or a new language has to be picked up, Gen–Z is always up for it. Not only this, but even adjusting to a new working atmosphere and bonding with colleagues is something which the generation is fairly good at. And aren’t these the skills a manager is looking for? This adaptability gift which they have is highly valued by companies as it helps in fostering innovation and a culture of growth in any sector.
Gen–Z is working towards a work culture which is familiar with flexibility, digital fluency and passion for work. They will not slog hours to glorify the ’12-hour work’ culture, but that doesn’t make them less hardworking. With their influence, companies are now revising their policies to make their workspaces employee-friendly. Similarly, our generation is also bringing new ways of working to the table. Be it from their leadership styles to the different ways of decentralisation, or getting the work done through digital apps, Gen-Z is trying to build a diverse work culture where everyone feels included.