As the next generation moves into the workplace, as an employer, you should be aware of the differences and needs so you can work with them effectively. Trust that millennials (born between 1980-1995) and Generation Z (born between 1995-2010) may not have the same focuses, but you can use that to your advantage.
- Generation Z has more concern about security. These employees were kids old enough to watch their parents deal with the Great Recession, so much like some of your grandparents still feel a need to save tinfoil because they went through the Great Depression, Generation Z focuses on raises and job security as they look toward their futures. Millennials tend to focus more on their purpose than their paycheck (although Gen Z also wants to make a difference).
- They differ in terms of multitasking. Generation Z, part of the Digital Age, grew up with everything “connected.” This means more than simply checking the numerous updates on their phones; it also means they respond to lots of different stimuli and can switch between tasks easily. Millennials may need a bit more prodding to stay on task, because Generation Z is so used to being hyperfocused on the task at hand (for a certain period). But you can make this work for you if you have several projects going at the same time.
- Communication styles differ. Contrary as it may seem, Generation Z wants to communicate face to face, as opposed to over social media or email, the preferred method for millennials. The former has seen the negative response other generations have to millennials having trouble communicating in person, and they’ve begun to swing the pendulum back. However, sometimes their face to face is digital, such as Skype or FaceTime, which can help if you have clients or customers you want to “meet” with in other locations.
With any younger generation there will be some friction; however, each has its positives and savvy employers can make their habits work for the company rather than against. For advice on how to work well with any generation, contact the Ventura County recruiters at PrideStaff Thousand Oaks Ventrua County.
