Five Ways for Leaders to Positively Engage Gen Z Employees

Recently, we had the opportunity to assist a training team tasked with developing entry-level engineers. Here's how they successfully engaged the next generation of talent.

The Situation: Understanding Gen Z Employees

The trainers noticed a shift in the behaviors and expectations of their new hires from Generation Z (ages 12-27), compared to the Generation Y employees (ages 28-43) they had been working with previously. While the new engineers seemed less inclined to spend extra time practicing with company tools outside of class or using the lab on weekends, this shift is part of a broader evolution in workplace values. Gen Z employees place a strong emphasis on work-life balance and meaningful engagement. The trainers, initially unsure how to motivate these employees, were eager to explore new strategies to inspire them.

Embracing the Gen Z Workforce: Key Stats

To gain insight into Gen Z's workplace preferences, consider these statistics:

• 54% of Gen Z employees (and younger Millennials) report being ambivalent or disengaged at work. However, this is not exclusive to Gen Z, as 49% of Gen Xers and 50% of Baby Boomers share similar sentiments.

• 49% of Gen Z employees say work is central to their identity, compared to 62% of Millennials. Gen Z highly values work-life balance and admires those who achieve it.

• 68% of Gen Z workers report high levels of stress, which can affect job performance and well-being.

• 70% of Gen Z candidates expect to be promoted within 18 months, signaling their ambition and desire for growth.

• 82% of Gen Z undergraduates believe that remote work should be an option when feasible.

How To Engage Gen Z Employees

While 74% of supervisors report challenges in managing Gen Z employees, this can be an opportunity to adjust management styles to align with their preferences and motivations. Here are five ways to engage Gen Z employees positively:

1. Build Personal Connections
   Take the time to get to know each Gen Z employee individually. Engage in open conversations about their roles, expectations, opportunities for flexibility, and realistic timelines and competencies necessary to advance within the organization. Clarifying their responsibilities, what they can expect from their teammates/coworkers, and how they can grow their career helps create a strong foundation of trust and mutual respect.

2. Teach Workplace Etiquette and Professionalism
   Some Gen Z employees may not have had much exposure to traditional workplace norms. Offering guidance on professionalism and respectful workplace behavior, either through one-on-one coaching or interactive, fun, and informative workshops, can be a great way to set them up for success.

3. Provide Frequent and Balanced Feedback
   Gen Z thrives on immediate, empathetic, and balanced feedback—especially positive feedback. Be thoughtful about how you deliver criticism or constructive feedback, providing explanations and discussions about how to improve. Make sure to also solicit their ideas and feedback, particularly in areas like technology and innovation, where they may bring fresh insights to the table.

4. Foster Intergenerational Learning
   Encourage collaboration across generations. Pair Gen Z employees with more experienced team members to create intergenerational project teams. This not only facilitates learning but also helps them appreciate the expertise and perspectives of their older colleagues.

5. Support Their Well-Being
   Regular check-ins can go a long way in helping Gen Z employees manage workplace stress and build confidence. Ensure they know about available resources like HR support, internal and external coaches, or mental health services, and make it clear that their well-being is a priority.

By making these adjustments, organizations can better connect with the creativity, pragmatism, and entrepreneurial spirit that Gen Z employees bring to the table. Their fresh perspectives, when nurtured, can help to drive innovation and success in your organization.

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Gen Z Workforce with Inspired Training

At Inspired Training, we’re dedicated to helping you empower and elevate your team. Our passion lies in seeing individuals thrive in their professional journey. By fostering self-awareness, unveiling unique talents, and overcoming limitations, we create dynamic coaching and workshop environments tailored to ignite growth and success.

Let’s transform potential into performance together. Discover how Inspired Training can help your Gen Z workforce thrive today!