Generation Z: The generation right after millennials, born roughly between 1995 and 2014. If you haven’t hired a member of Generation Z yet, you probably will soon.
Just like with other generations, Gen Z has its own traits and quirks. Members of this generation may be a challenge to manage. That’s why it’s important to understand this generation before they join your company.
This will also give you an opportunity to prepare ahead of time for some of the challenges that might arise, and also find ways to utilize the skills they will bring with them to the workforce.
So, what do we currently know about this generation?
Getting to Know Generation Z
First, this generation grew up with technology, just like Gen Y. But…not just computers, but cell phones, tablets, and constant access to the internet and information. Generation Z’s nickname is “iGen” because the internet has always been right at their fingertips. Their slogan could be, “Ask Siri” or “I’ll just look that up.” Even schools have made a switch away from teaching this generation things like spelling because that type of skill can be accessed online.
Utilizing Their Tech Skills
For a generation that loves being on their cell phones and using Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and all the other social media platforms, have them manage your company social media accounts. Encourage them to come up with creative ways to gain more followers. Put their phone addiction to good use for your company!
But make sure they understand your business goals surrounding social media. This is not something they’ll grasp without explanation, so be clear.
Diversity Matters
This generation is also growing up in a time where diversity and differences are celebrated. They can help you attract new customers, come up with meaningful marketing campaigns, and create an inclusive work environment.
They are also very interested in work that does good for their community. Encourage them to come up with thing your business can work on to increase its level of community service and volunteerism in your town.
Differences from Millennials
While Millennials grew up thinking they were special and could do anything they wanted to do, this generation saw Millennials struggle to find jobs, so they are actually a lot more pessimistic than previous generations.
This could be a challenge for management, so it is important to encourage positivity in the workplace, especially when asking them to staff trade shows and other events. You may need to do some extra training in this area, but with proper direction, they will make positivity a priority.
Phone Aversions
One other important characteristic about Generation Z that will help you understand them, but may also frustrate you, is that they really, really don’t like talking on the phone. If talking with customers is a big part of your business, coach them about that. Explain the value of such as soon as your Generation Z employee starts. It may be frustrating and you may think, “Why do they want to hide behind a screen!” But everything they do revolves around typing – status updates, text messaging, commenting, tweeting.
Keep this in mind as you hire and train your new employees. While smartphones are a huge part of their lives, talking on them isn’t. If it is an expectation that they talk on the phone constantly, just make that clear from the beginning. Gen Z learns quickly, and they will develop the skills you need them to have to offer great customer service.
While every person is an individual and may not follow the stereotypes of their generation, these are the overarching traits of Gen Z. Overall, they will continue the trend of using social media to attract customers, they value diversity, and they may need just a little more hand-holding and coaching as they develop into professionals. Utilize their strengths to help gain more momentum on social media and keep your business moving forward in this digital age.
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