Gen Z characteristics & How to attract them to your company

Who is Generation Z?

There is no exact definition of generation Z, or only one term for this group of people. So let's take a dive into this interesting world of the future workforce.

It is generally understood to include individuals born between the mid to late 1990s and the early to mid 2010s. That means about 25% of this generation is already a part of the workforce.

This generation has grown up in a world that is increasingly characterised by technological advancement, globalisation and social change. It is often defined by its diversity, activism and adaptability to rapid changes in society and technology.

Gen Z is the most commonly used term, but Generation Z has many synonyms like:

Of the synonyms the iGeneration and the Digital natives are the terms which are widely used. 

Climate, sustainability, and digital solutions

The agenda of climate, sustainability and digital solutions is important for Gen Z because this generation has grown up in a world where these issues have become urgent and pressing concerns.

They have seen the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels and natural disasters. They are acutely aware of the need to address these issues in order to secure a sustainable future.

Additionally, Gen Z is a generation that values social and environmental responsibility and believes that governments, businesses and individuals all have a role to play in creating a sustainable future.

They are calling for action and demanding that their leaders prioritise these issues in order to secure a better future for themselves and future generations.

Furthermore, Gen Z has grown up with technology as a central aspect of their lives, and they understand the potential for digital solutions to drive progress towards sustainability and climate action.

They recognise the importance of leveraging technology and innovation to find new solutions and create a more sustainable future.

In the next paragraph we will take a deeper look into the technology focus.

Gen Z and the technology

Gen Z believes that technology will play a significant role in addressing the climate crisis. Gen Z prioritises sustainable energy, enabling a circular economy and more sustainable public transport as the top areas for government investment to support sustainability.

When it comes to closing the digital divide, Gen Z sees providing access to devices and connectivity for disadvantaged groups and improving connectivity in rural areas as the top priority for government investment. Looking ahead to their 20s and 30s, Gen Z expects governments to invest in enabling access through connectivity and devices, digital healthcare and digital access to government services.

A significant proportion of Gen Z believes that governments should prioritise the creation of circular economies.

Given the importance Gen Z places on technology's role in fighting the climate crisis, governments, schools, businesses and climate activists should seek their input and collaborate with them to build circular economies, while ensuring that technology is leveraged as part of the fight.

As digital skills gaps continue to pose a significant challenge for governments and industries worldwide, Gen Z advocates for expanded learning opportunities to be made available both through education and as part of professional career opportunities.

Gen Z recognises the value of developing digital skills to boost their future careers and employment prospects. However, many feel that their education could have better equipped them with digital skills. Gen Z feels that both schools and businesses should work together to bridge the digital skills gap.

How to attract Gen Z to your company

Here are some strategies that you may consider:

1. Gen Z is known for being socially conscious and values driven. Highlight your company's mission, values and culture to attract Gen Z employees who align with your organisation's vision
2. Gen Z is a generation that values flexibility and work life balance. Consider offering flexible work arrangements such as: Remote work options, flexible scheduling and unlimited vacation time to attract Gen Z employees
3. Provide opportunities for growth and development. Gen Z is a generation that values continuous learning and development. Offer opportunities for training, mentoring, and career growth to attract Gen Z employees who are looking to develop their skills and advance their careers. But do not offer partnerships in 20 years. No one wants to wait so long anymore!
4. Gen Z is the first truly digital native generation. Leverage technology to attract Gen Z employees by offering digital tools and platforms that facilitate collaboration and communication, such as team messaging apps and virtual meeting tools
5. Gen Z values authenticity and transparency. Be honest and transparent about your company's goals, challenges and expectations during the recruitment process to attract Gen Z employees who are looking for genuine and authentic employers