Generation Z workers are in their 20s and starting their lives and careers. They can help solve your workforce woes. But you need to meet them where they are to get them on your team.
Gen Z workers are social media natives who are driven by realism, committed to inclusivity, polarized politically, and fiscally responsible. A Harris Poll provides some insights into what this generation wants and how to attract them to your organization and engage them as employees.
Among the findings:
- The pandemic affected everyone, but it devastated many Gen Zers. For instance, 77% of Gen Z women say that COVID will have a long-term impact on their lives and 38% report feeling like their life was cancelled because of the virus.
- Only 41% of Gen Zers are confident in the economy today, but 51% expect to feel more confident in the future.
- 32% worry somewhat/very often about losing their job or not finding enough work; and 27% worry about having to pay too much in taxes.
- While social media is second nature for Gen Zers, they see some negatives in it. Over half of Gen Z women (56%) say they believe social media is built to be addicting and 69% say it’s become more harmful than helpful.
When possible, Gen Zers want flexibility in their workplace:
- 86% say the want the ability to work remotely from anywhere they want.
- 82% say the want the ability to travel to wherever they want while working remotely.
- 35% changed the industry they work in during the pandemic, most commonly because they didn’t like the one they worked in (43%).
- 58% of Gen Z women prefer to work as freelancers or to have their own business so they can enjoy flexible hours.
- 74% of Gen Zers plan to actively seek a work-life balance, partly because they saw their parents experience burnout and stress.
If you want to attract Gen Z women to your workplace, be prepared to offer efforts and programs to promote mental health. According to the Harris Poll, 73% of Gen Z women say it’s more important for people to prioritize mental health over physical health. They also believe that if people spent as much time on their mental health as they do at the gym, “the world would be a better place.”
