What do the Gen-Zs want from the Workplace: Gen-Z Career Priorities

Are you part of Gen Z and wondering what your career priorities should be in this rapidly changing world of work? You are not alone. The job market is transforming at a faster pace than ever before, and it can be challenging to know what skills and experiences will be most valuable in the future. In this article, we'll explore the top career priorities for Gen Z and provide some guidance on how to navigate the future of work.

Who is Gen-Z: Understanding the Next Generation

Alright, let's dive into the Gen-Z crew! These are the cool cats born roughly between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. You know, the generation after millennials? They're a whole new vibe shaped by tech, society, and stuff. Gen-Z folks are practically born with smartphones in their hands. Seriously, they've been doing the tech thing since day one. That's why they're like wizards with gadgets, can juggle a million tasks at once, and can find anything online in seconds. But hey, all that screen time also means they're worried about their attention spans and mental chill. What's super neat about Gen-Z is how inclusive and chill they are. Everyone's welcome in their squad – no matter the color, gender, or who you love. They're big on fairness and wanna make the world better. Activism is their jam, and they're not shy about speaking up for what's right.

When it comes to jobs and learning, Gen-Z isn't fooling around. They're all about getting skills that actually matter and can help them score those sweet gigs. They're into startups and freelancing too. Working in pajamas? Yep, they're all in! Understanding Gen-Z is like speaking their language. They want real, not fake. Personalized experiences are a hit, and they've got a thing for making things count. Since they've basically grown up with the internet, they've got a say in shaping where it's all going. Bottom line, Gen-Z is a mix of tech smarts, caring for the world, and a dash of rebellion. Getting them is a must if you wanna rock it in their world. So, keep it real, keep it fun, and you're good to go!

Gen Z Career Priorities: Navigating the future of work

The first thing you need to know is that the job market is constantly evolving. Gen Z is ambitious and seeks opportunities for career growth. A report by Deloitte found that 61% of Gen Z individuals expect to be promoted within their first year of employment. The skills and experiences that were highly valued just a few years ago may no longer be in demand. However, there are a few trends that seem to be shaping the future of work, and it's worth paying attention to them.

Gen Z is known for their entrepreneurial mindset. According to a study by The Center for Generational Kinetics, 61% of Gen Z individuals aspire to be entrepreneurs and start their own businesses.

One of the most significant trends is the increasing importance of technology in the workplace. Whether you are interested in a career in healthcare, finance, or marketing, you will likely need to have some level of technical proficiency to succeed. Another trend is the rise of the gig economy, which is characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work.

With these trends in mind, let's explore the top career priorities for Gen Z.

What does the Gen-Z want from their workplace: Gen-Z career priorities

1. Gen-Z career priorities: Finding meaningful work

Gen Z is often described as a generation that values purpose over profit. In other words, they are looking for careers that align with their values and allow them to make a positive impact on the world. This means that companies that prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and diversity and inclusion are likely to be more attractive to Gen Z job seekers.

Finding meaningful work is a top priority for Gen Z. For them, work is not just a means of making money; it's an opportunity to make a difference in the world. They want to work for companies that align with their values and have a positive impact on society. Gen Z is passionate about making a positive impact through their careers. A report by McKinsey & Company found that 75% of Gen Z individuals believe that businesses should have a positive impact on society.

To find meaningful work, Gen Z is willing to put in the time and effort to research potential employers thoroughly. They use various sources such as social media, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to learn about a company's culture, values, and mission. They are also more likely to seek out mentorship and guidance from those with more experience to gain insights into the industry and to understand the qualities that successful professionals possess.

Another important factor for Gen Z is work-life balance. They value their time and prioritize activities such as travel, hobbies, and spending time with family and friends. As a result, they look for companies that offer flexible working arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours. Companies that prioritize work-life balance can attract and retain top talent from this generation.

Overall, Gen Z prioritizes finding meaningful work that aligns with their values and allows them to make a positive impact. They also prioritize work-life balance and seek out mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals to achieve their career goals.

2. Gen-Z career priorities: Developing technical skills

Developing technical skills is another priority for Gen Z when it comes to navigating the future of work. With the rapid pace of technological change, it's important for this generation to have the technical skills needed to succeed in the workforce.

Gen Z recognizes the importance of continuous learning and skill development to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving job market. According to a report by Northeastern University, 80% of Gen Z individuals believe they need to update their skills every few years.

To develop their technical skills, Gen Z often turns to online resources such as coding tutorials, online courses, and YouTube videos. They also seek out internships and co-op programs to gain practical experience and put their skills into practice. Many Gen Zers also pursue further education through graduate programs, boot camps, or certifications to deepen their knowledge and expertise in a particular field.

The demand for technical skills is only increasing, and Gen Z understands this. They recognize that jobs that require technical skills are often higher-paying and offer more opportunities for growth and advancement. Therefore, they are willing to invest time and resources in developing these skills to stay competitive in the job market.

Employers that prioritize technical skills in their job postings can attract top talent from this generation. Additionally, providing training and development opportunities can help retain employees and encourage them to continually improve their skills. Overall, developing technical skills is crucial for Gen Z's success in the workforce and their ability to navigate the future of work.

3. Gen-Z career priorities: Building a strong professional network

Building a strong professional network is essential for Gen Z when it comes to navigating the future of work. Networking can provide opportunities for career growth, mentorship, and access to job opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.

To build a strong professional network, Gen Z often starts by attending industry events, job fairs, and career expos to meet and connect with professionals in their field of interest. They also use social media platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with professionals and industry leaders. Building relationships with professors, peers, and alumni can also be beneficial for networking and job opportunities.

It's important for Gen Z to approach networking with authenticity and a genuine interest in building relationships. This means taking the time to listen and learn from professionals in their field, rather than just trying to get something out of the connection. It's also important to follow up and stay in touch with contacts to maintain the relationship over time.

Employers can also play a role in helping Gen Z build their professional network. Companies can offer mentorship programs and provide opportunities for employees to attend industry events and conferences. Employers can also encourage employees to connect with each other on social media and provide opportunities for cross-functional collaboration to build relationships across departments.

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4. Gen-Z career priorities: Gaining work experience

Gaining work experience is a crucial priority for Gen Z when it comes to navigating the future of work. Employers often prioritize candidates with relevant work experience, and Gen Z understands that gaining experience early on can set them up for success in the long term.

To gain work experience, Gen Z often looks for internships, co-op programs, and part-time jobs while still in school. These opportunities allow them to gain practical experience in their field of interest and develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their future careers. They also seek out volunteer opportunities and extracurricular activities to build their resume and demonstrate their skills and abilities.

5. Gen-Z career priorities: Being adaptable

The job market is changing rapidly, and it's essential to be adaptable and open to new opportunities. This means being willing to learn new skills, take on new responsibilities, and pivot if necessary. It's also important to be comfortable with uncertainty and ambiguity, as the future of work is likely to be characterized by both.

Gen-Z career priorities: Navigating your career as a Gen-Z

Now that we've explored the top career priorities for Gen Z, let's talk about how to navigate the future of work.

1. Gen-Z career priorities: Stay Informed

The first step is to stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and new job opportunities. This means reading industry publications, attending conferences and events, and following thought leaders on social media.

2. Gen-Z career priorities: Continuously Develop Your Skills

As we've already discussed, developing technical skills is crucial in today's job market. However, it's also essential to develop other soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. These skills will be valuable regardless of the specific job or industry you are in, and they will help you stand out from other job candidates.

3. Gen-Z career priorities: Embrace Flexibility

The gig economy and remote work are becoming more prevalent, which means that traditional 9-to-5 jobs may become less common. This can be both a challenge and an opportunity. On the one hand, it can be challenging to balance multiple part-time jobs or manage your own schedule as a freelancer. On the other hand, it can provide more flexibility and autonomy in your work.

4. Gen-Z career priorities: Seek Out Mentorship

Mentorship can be invaluable in helping you navigate the job market and develop your career. This can come in many forms, such as a formal mentorship program at your company, networking with professionals in your industry, or seeking advice from family and friends who have more experience.

5. Gen-Z career priorities: Emphasize Your Unique Skills and Experiences

Finally, it's important to recognize that your unique skills and experiences can be a valuable asset in the job market. Whether you have a passion for social justice, a talent for graphic design, or a knack for public speaking, these qualities can set you apart from other job candidates. Don't be afraid to showcase your strengths and highlight what makes you unique.

Conclusion

Navigating the future of work can be daunting, but by focusing on the right career priorities and developing the necessary skills and experiences, Gen Z can thrive in this rapidly changing job market. By staying adaptable, seeking out mentorship, and embracing new opportunities, you can build a successful and fulfilling career.

Remember, the future of work is not set in stone, and it's up to you to shape it. Keep the top career priorities for Gen Z in mind, stay informed and continuously develop your skills, and you'll be well on your way to navigating the future of work successfully.

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