Leading a cross-generational team is always a challenge at work, including leading Gen Z at work. Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z brought a new perspective shaped by technological advances, social awareness, and the need for meaningful work.
For team leaders, understanding the unique characteristics of this generation is key to creating a productive and harmonious work environment. Here's a complete guide to effectively recognizing and leading Gen Z at work.
Before discussing leadership strategies, it is important to understand who Gen Z really is. Gen Z is a generation that was born and grew up in the digital era, so they have a high sensitivity to technology and information.
Some key characteristics of Gen Z in the workplace include:
• Technology literate: and quickly adapt to digital
tools
• Care about social issues, environment, and
diversity
• Appreciate authenticity,transparency, and values
that align with their hearts
• Looking for meaningful workand not just chasing a
salary
• Maintain work-life balance(work-life balance)
• Need recognition and instant feedback
• Be open to learning and self-development
By understanding these characteristics, you can design a leadership approach that is right on target.
With their unique characteristics, how to lead Gen Z at work cannot be haphazard. After understanding their character, you also need to develop a leadership strategy.
Here are some tips for leading Gen Z at work that you can do.
Gen Z is not only looking for a great salary, but also a company with aligned values. Mereka is interested in working in an environment that is inclusive, supportive, and has a clear social mission.
What you can do:
• Communicate clearly the company's vision, mission and social
impact
• Create a work environment that is inclusive and celebrates
diversity
• Provide flexibility in the way you work to support life balance
As digital natives, Gen Z is used to an all-digital world. They expect companies to provide technologists efficiently and intuitively.
What you can do:
• Use digital collaboration tools (like Slack, Notion, Trello)
• Provide regular technology training
• Encourage them to share innovative solutions or tools
Gen Z is hungry for knowledge and personal development. They want to continue learning and improving their skills.
What you can do:
• Provide access to online training, workshops or courses
• Provide mentoring and a clear career path
• Involve them in cross-functional projects
Mental health issues are very important for Gen Z. They are more open in discussing stress, anxiety and burnout.
What you can do:
• Provide mental health support programs (counseling, mindfulness,
etc.)
• Encourage open conversations without stigma
• Set a realistic workload and sufficient rest time
Gen Z wants to know that their work matters and is appreciated. Honest and timely feedback is a motivation for them.
What you can do:
• Use an appreciation system, both formal and informal
• Provide regular and constructive feedback
• Celebrate individual and team achievements publicly
Honesty and openness are very important to Gen Z. They want to be involved in the decision-making process and feel like their voices are heard.
What you can do:
• Hold regular meetings that are open for discussion
• Implement an “open door” policy
• Be transparent about the company's strategy, challenges and
achievements
Gen Z wants to feel part of something bigger. They are motivated if they know that their work have a real impact.
What you can do:
• Involve them in projects that are relevant to their values
• Hold a collaborative brainstorming session
• Connect each of their jobs to the company's long-term goals
Work-life balance is a top priority for Gen Z. They prefer workplaces that give freedom in determining how to work.
What you can do:
• Flexible working hours or hybrid/remote working
• The work system is based on results, not hours
• Provide autonomy in decision making
Gen Z appreciates leaders who can guide and set an example, not just give instructions.
What you can do:
• Build relationships based on trust and empathy
• Provide time for regular coaching and evaluation
• Encourage them to ask questions, experiment, and learn from
mistakes
Gen Z wants to own control over their work. By giving trust, they will feel valued and more responsible.
What you can do:
• Give space to their ideas and creativity
• Involve them in important processes and real challenges
• Show that you believe in their abilities, even if they are young
Leading Gen Z requires a more personal, transparent and development-oriented approach. By understanding their values and motivations, you can create a healthier, more productive and innovative work environment.
Gen Z is not just the workforce of the future. They are change agents who are ready to make a big impact on the organization.
Are you looking for talented young candidates who are ready to grow with your company? Or are you Gen Z who wants to work for a company that appreciates your value and potential?
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Find a job vacancy Which in line with your passion and life goals, as well as companies that value the uniqueness of Gen Zers like you.
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