On April 14, 2023, Afidence and Ingage Partners hosted a Lunch and Learn event. “Get Ready to Lead Gen Z: Tips, Tricks, and Trends for IT Leaders” was a great success, with many IT leaders in attendance, both in-person and virtually. Attendees were given insights into how to engage with Gen Z in the workplace so they can continue to grow into the future.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious lunch while learning what to expect from the newest generation to enter the workforce: Gen Z. Afidence’s own Spencer Hogan led the event, providing valuable insights into working with Gen Z employees.

These young whippersnappers are a whole different breed than most IT leaders are used to. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t valuable! By tapping into this pool of workers, you can unlock a great resource for your company. And with baby boomers hitting retirement age at a rate of 10,000 per day, it’s important to identify younger workers that can help your organization thrive. 

So, What Did We Learn About Gen Z in the Workplace? 

The talk highlighted that Gen Z has different values and needs than other generations. Some of their top values include: 

Safety

These kids have seen some seriously wild times in the first twenty-ish years of their lives: 9/11, the Great Recession, and COVID, just to name a few. This has made them acutely aware of the uncertainties of life. They want to feel safe and secure in their jobs and with their coworkers. 

To help combat this need, IT leaders should foster open communication with all employees and emphasize workplace safety. Encourage employees to speak up and share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas without fear. Create an environment where Gen Z feels comfortable approaching their supervisors and colleagues. 

Purpose

Many Gen Z struggle with identity. They want to be part of something larger than themselves, so having a sense of purpose is important to them. 

To help set your company apart, define your company’s mission and values and share them with the public. Offer opportunities for professional development that shows you believe in and support your employees and allows them to learn more about what interests them. Take the time to recognize and reward meaningful work. You can also give opportunities for community volunteering and encourage staff to get involved. 

Connection

While technology has connected us all in ways we never thought possible, it has also left many feeling lonely. That’s why Gen Z craves connection and intimacy, even in the workplace. 

Your company should show that you value your employees, even in simple ways. An example of this could be implementing a mentorship program for all new employees. That way, they always have somebody they feel comfortable talking to. Host team events, virtual or in person, and find ways to provide opportunities for socializing and bonding outside of work talk. Make sure to offer a variety of activities to appeal to different interests and personalities. 

Gen Z in the Workplace

Afidence and Ingage Partners would like to thank everyone who participated in this insightful afternoon. By attending the event, IT leaders gained valuable insights into the unique needs of Gen Z employees. They learned how to better work with this emerging generation to create a positive and productive work environment. Our hope is this information will allow organizations to stay ahead of the curve and thrive into the future.