GEN Z
IN THE WORKPL ACE BY MEG COOPER
GENERATION Z (GEN Z), BORN IN THE LATE 1990s TO EARLY 2000s, HAS BEEN ENTERING THE WORKFORCE FOR ROUGHLY THE PAST FIVE YEARS. ALREADY, AS WITH EVERY GENERATION, THERE ARE STIGMAS AND JUDGMENTS FROM THE OLDER GENERATIONS. “KIDS THESE DAYS” AND “WHEN WE WERE KIDS …” ARE PHRASES OFTEN HEARD WHEN THE NEXT GENERATION ENTERS THE SOCIAL FRAY. However, looking at the social structure, Gen Z isn’t much different from the millennials in that both have grown up with technology at their fingertips. However, the younger generation is the first to grow up knowing only smartphones, having instant access to the internet and the convenience of Amazon, as well as apps like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, WhatsApp and TikTok. Gen Z is able to broadcast their views in mere seconds as the connectivity and passion of this generation is fluid, moving through our social culture with ease. Factor in the generation’s embrace of social activism and their strong sense of justice and Gen Z is changing the landscape of work culture.
Values are Vital With that ability to broadcast their opinions far and wide, Gen Z can be the harbingers of great social change. A deep sense of social responsibility, inclusivity and passion-driven morals enable Gen
24 | www.brushwaremag.com
Z to drastically alter the makeup of the workforce going forward, while also setting the parameters for the culture of working. Gen Z’ers are more likely than other generations to leave their place of employment if they feel the values of the company do not reflect the values that they hold. An article in the BizWoman Business Journals cites research that illustrates the perspective of Gen Z, “Two out of Three Gen Z workers want employers who share their values … Studies have uncovered Gen Z’s preference for companies that value authenticity and make mental health a priority … Affected by the pandemic, social justice movements, and climate change, more Gen Z’ers have switched from carefree constituents to authentic activists since the study was conducted in 2019.” Values-based consumerism is their idea of brand loyalty and this translates to how they find employment, as well. What does your company
