by Kate Yaughn
Generation Z is unlike any generation that’s come before us. We’ve grown up in an era of technology and social media like no other, and we are fueled by a sense of purpose and belonging. These desires to be a part of something larger than ourselves pour into all areas of life, including the workplace.
In years past, many employees would seek the highest-earning position or the one with the most benefits. Gen-Z, however, looks for more than just money. As a whole, the generation is more likely to work for a company that speaks up for their favorite social justice issues, and about half of Gen-Z said that if a company’s views didn’t align with their own, they wouldn’t accept a position there.
In addition to seeking a workplace with similar views and opinions to their own, members of Generation Z are much more attentive to how employers handle matters of mental health. Gen-Z is very open to conversations about mental health and rising depression, stress, and anxiety rates.
Above all, though, Generation Z is driven by more than just benefits or pay. They’re motivated by passion and purpose. Gen-Z doesn’t like to simply do things the way they’ve always been. Instead, they are a generation of innovators, always looking for the most efficient, impactful way to reach a goal. Many members of Gen-Z also said they would not stay at a job that interfered with their personal lives, meaning that employers must be sensitive to burnout and overworking their employees.
So, what’s most important to Gen-Z in the workplace?
- Alignment of opinions on social justice issues
- Sensitivity to mental health
- A sense of purpose and belonging
- Separation of work and personal lives
- Freedom to innovate
Overall, Gen-Z is a generation very different from those that came before them. They have different, newer priorities and values, and they’re looking for more than money in a workplace.
We are always looking for people whose “DNA” matches ours!