Harnessing the Strengths of Your Gen Z Talent
Gen Z has a particularly bad rep for supposed lack of work ethic, over-reliance on tech, and seeming entitled but what does actual research show? We looked at the true skills that Gen Z offer and distinct characteristics that managers can leverage to benefit organizations.
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Lazy? Entitled? Not So Much
As Gen Z – typically those born between 1997 and 2012 – become a more significant part of the workforce, they will bring with them a new set of skills and perspectives. Gen Z has suffered from stereotypes around laziness, reluctance of in-person interactions and being fragile amongst other things. The reality is that every generation challenge what has been done in the past and how we work. Gen Z is no different.
Gen Z Score Strongly in A Range of Work-Related Skills
Based on analysis of 76,000 Gen Z job candidates globally, the skills that really stand out are the strength of their Interpersonal Skills, scoring highly in areas like Encouraging Diverse Thinking, Consulting Others and Adapting Interpersonal Style, and their propensity for Strategic Thinking, ranking highly in Critical Evaluation, Considering Strategic Vision, Driving Improvement and Developing Compelling Ideas.
With less work experience and less opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in person due to the rise of hybrid working, Gen Z employees have developed ways of working that may seem alien to much of the professional workforce. Combined with the transformative impact of AI on the workplace, and a shift to skills, organizations need to change the way they think about work, roles, and careers.
In comparison to other generations, Gen Z demonstrate the strongest skills relating to Taking Initiative, which means these workers are likely to Seek Out Additional Work and Proactively Take on New Responsibilities. They also rank highest on the skills associated with Communication, particularly Comprehension of Spoken Information and the meanings underlying and Creating a Positive Impression on Others.
A Working Environment for Gen Z to Thrive
Gen Z workers have come to expect flexibility as normal for their working life, and maintaining a work-life balance is important. Providing both the ability to work remotely and work outside the traditional hours of 9-5 is greatly valued.
Having an open working environment where employees are comfortable voicing their opinions, sharing ideas and receiving constructive feedback is also beneficial, as Gen Z thrive on honesty and openness. Enabling two-way dialogue and opportunities to speak candidly will help build trust.
Collaborate to Innovate: The Power of Teams and Tech
Having grown up in the world of social media, Gen Z are used to comparison, competition, and collaboration. This can be beneficial to organizations by having an environment where teamwork is valued, knowledge is shared, and innovation is encouraged. Recognizing and celebrating achievements and implementing performance-based rewards will encourage hard work and engagement.
In a digital-first world, Gen Z are well placed to drive technological innovation, embrace the latest tools, and leverage the use of AI. Working with the latest technology will not just take advantage of their skills in these areas, but motivate and excite them, enhancing productivity and efficiency within the business.
Empowering Gen Z: The Key to Future Success
Gen Z are keen to learn and develop themselves so having structured development plans, training resources and insights into what skills to develop, and how, is important. This should also lead to career progression which is a significant motivator for Gen Z so they can have a clear view of how acquiring and developing new skills will lead to advancement or growth within the organization.
By accurately measuring skills and relying on data rather than misconceptions, employers can build an environment where employees can flourish. Gen Z are going to be a critical part of any future company success so hiring the right early careers talent, leveraging their strengths and developing them in the right ways is essential to drive growth.
See how you can measure the skills of individuals, teams, and your entire workforce to drive effective development and get the most from your talent with SHL's Skills Development Solution.
