Last year, I wrote an article offering suggestions on how to increase employee retention. Suggestions included sponsoring social events such as icebreakers and happy hours, ways to be appreciative and empathetic to employees, and investing in the individual. While all of these suggestions still hold true, a new generation has entered the workforce in high numbers and the paradigm has shifted a bit.

This new generation is known as Generation Z. Based on key political, economic and social factors, Pew Research has defined Generation Z as those born after 1996. Although not vastly different from their predecessors, appealing to and retaining employees of this new generation requires a slightly different approach. Gen Z has grown up in the age of instantaneous gratification (through uninterrupted online access) and constant interaction (through social media). They also embody a greater sense of social justice and a desire to work towards meaningful change. Tap into these sentiments to engage with them and foster loyalty. Here are some ways business leaders can prepare to welcome them with open arms.

  1. Finding Meaning. A sense of purpose at work is a great motivator for everyone, but especially so for Gen Z. Align your company vision with a greater purpose, or reframe your mission statement to include a desire for positive change. It will attract attention for all the right reasons and give your Gen Z workforce the motivation they crave.
  2. The Green Zone. Environmental issues really rose to the top of the list of concerns with millennials and Gen Z has proudly taken the mantle from them. Companies that have in place green strategies like a recycling program, a paperless documents policy, or an energy conservation plan give Gen Z-ers good reason to feel good about their role at work.
  3. Holistic Wellness. Gen Z is concerned as much about mental and physical wellbeing as they are about personal advancement and making money. Organizations that offer programs like gym memberships or in-house yoga facilities will definitely get a thumbs-up from them. Better still, research shows that healthy staff are more productive so your investment will pay for itself.
  1. Tech Wiz. There is no doubt that technology has become an integral part of our lives. Gen Z has not known a world without the internet and they rely extensively on apps to get things done on the move. Encourage the use of apps that improve productivity and they will readily embrace them. If it is practical, you could consider a company app that allows employees to work and interact wherever they are.
  2. Greater Purpose. Despite the fast pace of life driven by social media, Gen Z is acutely aware that there is a deeper meaning to existence. The desire for non-material goals like meaningful lives and self-actualization are more common at a young age among Gen Z-ers than they were for previous generations. Tap into this with activities like meditation classes and team-building exercises.
  3. Leveraging Shares. Gen Z loves to share its experiences. Organize company events that make for engaging and exciting experiences (and great optics). They do not just make great platforms to advertise your brand at no cost but are also fantastic opportunities for cross-selling with other companies.
  4. The Transition. Millennials are closest to Gen Z in terms of their mentality and outlook on life. This usually makes them the best option for managing and supervising the newest members of your workforce. Millennials are already moving into senior leadership positions. They have the experience and the industry insight to guide Gen Z to achieve their personal goals while contributing meaningfully to your company.

Need more ideas on how to recruit and support members of the next generation? Please contact me today!