What Motivates GenZ at Work

15.04.23 04:53 PM - Comment(s) - By Marie Williams

GenZs are the first generation to have access to instant information. A third of individuals aged 20 to 29 have bachelor’s degrees. Reading about world catastrophes, these twenty-somethings grew up believing in the power of their own volition and mistrusting people in power (only 19% of GenZs believe others can be trusted, compared to 40% of Boomers, according to a Pew Research Study).

GenZ is the most diverse generation to date. They are disrupting norms in the best and worst possible ways, and the future of your workforce depends on them.

The good news—they are different, but they also have a lot in common with you… especially the you from 10, 20, or 30 years ago. So what motivates them?

1. Job Ambiguity

Like generations that came before, today’s twenty-somethings are motivated by innovation and growth and looking for ways to progress quickly. Because they’re multicultural and extremely adept at multi-tasking, they will want diverse work activity and experiences. Keep job roles clear, identify and offer opportunities for growth and creative expression that build or stretch their expertise.

Be willing to let GenZs explore other pathways your company has to offer, and give them opportunities to explore their interests outside of work by, for example, facilitating volunteer opportunities (they are just as altruistic as prior generations).

2. Mentor and Advise

Recent college graduates have so much potential and energy. By tapping into it and mentoring them, you’re not only giving them guidance and feedback, but ultimately helping the company gain a long-term, inspired, and profitable employee.

3. Forget the Money

Today, student loans outstrip credit card debt. But surprisingly, 20-somethings equate job satisfaction with good benefits and doing what they love. Money is not their first priority. Building a goal driven organization that has communicated clear priorities and outcomes is key to success. You can best engage GenZs in your mission by tying them into the organization at all levels and engaging them with clear, well-defined goals and outcomes, they will be motivated.

4. Give Constructive Feedback

Provide constructive feedback on employee work. GenZs want direct feedback. Recognize exceptional work. Have one-on-ones. Set up team building exercises. Be transparent about how an employee’s work affects the company’s future. Keep your team informed on company goals.

In summary, GenZs are a unique generation with unique experiences. Their multicultural, inclusive, and digital transparency habits are assets for growing and global organizations. Their motivation and willingness to work is not so different from previous generations. By recruiting the right talent for your organization and investing in that talent, you will develop the next great workforce.