BY
Jaden Png
The UrbanWire Deputy Editor

Hype Issue #59

Published on

July 26, 2024

Gen Zs bring fresh perspectives on collaborations and communications. However, these perspectives may cause them problems as they adapt to the workplace. (Photo taken from Pinterest)

Gen Zs are typically referred to as digital natives and have an affinity for digital platforms and communication tools. They are also known for having diverse perspectives and placing value on things such as work-life balance and mental well-being. However, they may experience a culture shock upon joining the workforce, especially adjusting to a full workweek, as many are used to the more flexible arrangements of tertiary education. The need to be available around the clock and long working hours on most days may leave Gen Zs feeling overwhelmed and at risk of burnout.

Mark Ng, shared that he was lucky to have amazing mentors early in his career, motivating him to be a mentor as well. (Photo provided by Jobstreet by SEEK in Singapore)

Mark Ng, SEO, Social Content and Marketing Lead of Jobstreet Singapore, shares that Gen Zs, like Millennials, think about their work differently than those from older generations. For example, young professionals often value flexible working cultures, while Millennial employers are accustomed to values like long-term loyalty to the company. The misalignment of values between Gen Zs and their Millennial employers can affect their work performance and lead to miscommunications and stress. 

Building interpersonal relationships and fitting into traditional workplaces can be a challenge as well for Gen Zs. Since Gen Zs are digital natives who usually speak casually and use informal slang learnt from the internet and their friends, they may not be easily understood by everyone in the workplace. This widens the gap between Gen Zs and other age groups within their workplace, making it harder for them to build interpersonal relationships.

How can employers and companies help Gen Zs adapt to the workforce?

Companies have a role to play in creating a supportive workplace that can help Gen Zs better adapt to the workplace. (Photo taken from Pinterest.)

Mr Ng shared that Gen Zs would do well to consider clearly articulating their expectations, and that they should foster open communication channels to help them feel that they are supported in the workplace. Fostering a workplace culture where employees can freely express their concerns, ask questions, and seek guidance, helps to build a strong foundation for a productive and long-lasting working relationship.

Moreover, having mentorship programmes is just as important as having a nurturing and positive work environment. Strong camaraderie and rapport among senior colleagues can provide new team members with guidance, support, and honest feedback. Mentors can help keep employees motivated, offer solutions to work-related challenges, and share experiences that can help other employers navigate career paths. 

Additionally, showing flexibility in meeting the needs of Gen Z employees can enhance satisfaction, provided their requests are reasonable of course. Mr Ng shares that offering flexible working hours or hybrid models can significantly improve work-life balance. He says some companies are already doing this, citing Jobstreet’s Hiring, Compensation & Benefits Report 2024, which found that 17% of employers indicated that they are already providing flexible benefits for employees, with an additional 11% that began to provide these in 2023 or are planning to do so in 2024.

What benefits do Gen Zs actually bring to the workplace?

 Involving Gen Z employees in decision-making and sharing sessions can boost productivity and satisfaction, as well as create a dynamic workplace. (Photo taken from Pinterest)

So what can Gen Zs bring to your workplace? Mr Ng says that Gen Z employees bring fresh, innovative thinking as well as strong digital skills (being digital natives after all), driving digital transformation and innovation. They value work-life balance and flexible arrangements, seeking greater autonomy and less supervision.

Accommodating these preferences can boost productivity and satisfaction, creating a dynamic, efficient workplace. Gen Zs also value diversity, equity, and inclusivity, promoting a vibrant work culture. Their emphasis on honesty and clear communication strengthens trust and collaboration. Employers can harness these strengths by involving Gen Zs in decision-making, leading diversity initiatives, and sharing ideas. This approach enhances autonomy, increases satisfaction, and improves work quality and efficiency, as happy, motivated employees tend to perform better.

What should Gen Zs look out for when they enter the workforce?

Transiting to full-time work can be challenging for Gen Zs, especially with the ever-changing job landscape and competition from others. (Photo taken from Pinterest)

For those Gen Zs who are about to enter the workforce or have already entered, Mr Ng has some helpful advice. He shared that navigating the transition to full-time work with a balanced approach is crucial. Job seekers need to equip themselves with a blend of soft and hard skills to stand out in today’s hyper-competitive landscape, where digitalisation is paramount. Adaptability, communication, problem-solving, and digital skills are essential to survive in the future workplace, especially in a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) world where job disruptions are common. 

With technology transforming industries rapidly, young adults must look towards constant upskilling and reskilling to ensure they stay relevant with up-to-date knowledge. Resources like Career Hub, a free community learning platform by Jobstreet, allow individuals to seek advice for career development. Career Hub equips professionals with essential skills and offers insights from industry leaders, providing tailored support and development opportunities. By focusing on these areas, jobseekers can navigate the workforce more effectively and build a fulfilling career.

Ultimately, the world is your oyster, be bold and be brave! Use your energy and earnestness to drive you, keeping an open mind to new possibilities. It’s perfectly fine to stumble along the way, just keep fine-tuning and moving forward. Remember to communicate obsessively, produce quality work, and ensure your efforts are visible. Finally, keep learning and growing by connecting with professionals and honing your people skills; you’ll be surprised at how much you can achieve when people like you and your work.