A generation consists of individuals grouped by age range, shaped by the specific period in which they grew up. Generation differences arise while members of the same generation often share similar experiences, influencing psychological traits and behavioral patterns. Each generation brings its own set of values, beliefs, and practices. As the world changes with young Gen Z professionals, these generational distinctions contribute to a more diverse and dynamic workplace and society.

Gen Z professionals are entering the workforce. They are tech-savvy, engaged with social media, and use technology to excel in the job market.

As hiring managers, understanding generational differences is important to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace through effective communication. The key factors to organizational success are teamwork and thought leadership.

The Gen Zs: Who are they?

Gen Z, born between 1995 and 2010, is a generation that grew up immersed in digitalization. They are experts in social media, online networks, and mobile technology. They can quickly gather, process, and analyze information, enabling them to perform complex tasks. Thus, McKinsey refers to Gen Z as the “hypercognitive generation.”

Gen Z professionals display different contexts, behaviors, and consumption patterns. Gen Z strongly emphasizes seeking truth, which is reflected in their key characteristics. They are more realistic, ethical, and communicative than Millennials, who are often seen as self-focused, global-minded, and keen.

However, their commitment to radical inclusivity truly sets Gen Z apart. They choose not to define themselves in just one way but instead, constantly seek authenticity and diverse perspectives.

The Gen Z Professionals in the Workforce

Gen Z professionals focus on personality—they value traits like being fun, intelligent, and quick-thinking. This makes Generation Z second to none in the workplace because of their diversified standpoints. The Gen Z age range is growing in the workforce. They hold a strong ability to multitask, often exceeding the capabilities of Millennials.

Companies need to be sensible of their behavior to easily engage in and adapt to this generation’s unique caliber.

Gen Z values in-person communication and human interaction

A Standford report published in February 2024 tackled how Gen Z will change the workforce. One important characteristic to highlight is that Gen Zers are pragmatic. They are vocal and unafraid to ask questions every time they need clarity.

Newsweek reports that 37% of Gen Z have low productivity at work because of the generation age range. However, interviews suggest that the focus should not be on assigning blame. Companies have to consider understanding and communicating appropriately between generations.

Gen Z spends extended screen time hours and often uses internet slang. But, they still value in-person interaction at work. The need for face-to-face communication still enables them to take a break from digital overload.

Additionally, Gen Z professionals appreciate bosses who lead by constantly communicating transparently. They value honesty and authenticity, being particularly sensitive to dishonesty.

Gen Z prioritizes equality, inclusion, and strong work ethics

Today’s generation highly promotes DEI (diversity, equality, and inclusion). This group is the most diverse and has witnessed a lot of social events and issues despite their young age. They have become fully aware of societal challenges as they access most of their information through social media. This exposure makes them highly susceptible to classified and political content.

Growing up in an online world filled with diverse, and often conflicting, perspectives has deeply influenced their worldview. Gen Z professionals are purpose-driven and make everyone feel heard and included in the workplace.

Gen Z advocates for work-life balance in the workplace

This generation seeks not only job security and growth opportunities but also prioritizes work-life balance—for both themselves and their colleagues. They expect managers to take an active role in safeguarding their employees’ well-being and mental health. Gen Zers are known for their ability to multitask and high level of flexibility. It’s key to respect their time beyond work hours whenever possible.

How to effectively communicate with Gen Z Professionals?

Recognize and leverage their unique strength.

Effective communication with Gen Z professionals is essential to understand their needs and strengths for managers. Gen Zers are commonly misinterpreted because of their expertise in technology and digitalization. Focus on leveraging their strengths, instead of comparing. Thus, managers should leverage Gen Z’s strengths to help them execute tasks efficiently and on time.

Gen Zers are highly confident in their abilities and possess valuable transferable skills, including problem-solving, adaptability, critical thinking, management, teamwork, and attention to detail, making them more successful in the job market.

Embrace mobile-first communication.

Have you ever been contacted during meetings, vacations, or family gatherings via call and multiple private messages? One trendsetting way to communicate with Gen Z professionals is to use mobile-supported channels to assign, follow up, and complete tasks. Managers can initiate collaborative work at any time, thanks to Gen Zers’ smartphone flairs!

Consider using a mobile app that functions like a social media platform for your team of Gen Zers instead of making direct calls. Ensure that the mobile app is user-friendly, fast, and visually appealing. Moreover, this approach supports DEI values.

Be honest and transparent.

Bully bosses are not welcome in this generation. Gen Z’s constant exposure to fake information has sharpened their ability to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not.

According to INQUIRER.net, public awareness in spotting fake and real news increased from 56% in 2023 to 59% in 2024. This heightened awareness shapes how Gen Z perceives the world and informs their expectations at work.

Managers should be honest in giving important information. Gen Z rejects stereotypes and isn’t afraid to speak up when something feels wrong. Instead, be direct and precise whenever necessary.

Engage with Gen Z for managerial feedback.

Autonomy and freedom at work are qualities that both Millennials and Gen Z value while exploring strategies alone to work on new task assignments. However, young Gen Zers need managers to provide professional feedback to guide them in doing the right thing.

Acknowledge their efforts with simple praise like “good job”. This would make them feel more valuable and validated. Lastly, managers can assess if the company fosters career growth and personal development.

Understand and address their fears.

Gen Z professionals are new to the workplace, with a clear gap between them and older generations, especially Baby Boomers. Their main concern as new employees is being unfairly labeled as lazy, dramatic, or uninterested in work. However, these stereotypes are far from the truth.

This generation finds time to acquire side hustles and continuously scrolling across various career sites like Bossjob. They crave additional learnings and skills to stay relevant in the job market and to achieve their career goals. Above all, Gen Z is a highly goal-oriented generation, regardless of age.

Open dialogue is essential to Gen Z Professionals

Today’s modern technology aligns well with Gen Z professionals. They engage actively with trends on social media and in the job market. Communicating with this generation can be challenging due to generational differences. Therefore, the key is to understand what matters most to this generation.

Bossjob, a chat-first career platform popular with Gen Zers, offers AI-powered job-matching solutions to connect you with tech-savvy and globally competitive talents. Sign up today and become an employer who efficiently communicates with diverse and inclusive job seekers.