After years of remote work, Generation Z faced challenges when returning to the workplace due to a gap between what they knew they needed to do and what they felt confident to do. Many employers found it confusing and frustrating when younger workers relied on emails instead of more direct forms of communication like phone calls. As Baby Boomers retired, Generation Z became the largest group of new workers, leading to a need for better understanding and engagement between them and their employers. Milly Bannister, founder of a Generation Z-focused mental health training charity, stressed the importance of meeting in the middle to address the needs of young workers in terms of remote work and mental health support.
Bannister also highlighted the opportunity for Generation Z workers to “career hack” and learn from the wealth of advice available on social media about navigating the corporate world. With a strong interest in advancing their careers, many of them are seeking information on aspects like pay rises, dealing with difficult colleagues, and climbing the corporate ladder. While employers need to adapt to the needs of this generation in the workplace, there is also a call for young workers to take initiative and leverage the resources available to them to succeed in their careers.
Tahlia McLeod, a 27-year-old marketing co-ordinator, shared her experience of transitioning from remote work to being back in the office. Having worked in customer service, she felt more comfortable with offline communication, but still struggled with confidence on the phone. She preferred using short, quick messaging platforms like Slack or Teams to get work done efficiently. Despite her experience, McLeod admitted that she still hesitated when receiving phone calls, preferring text-based communication.
Overall, bridging the gap between Generation Z workers and their employers requires understanding and compromise from both sides. Employers need to adapt to the preferences and needs of young workers, including remote work options and mental health support, while also tapping into their potential to innovate and succeed in the workplace. On the other hand, Generation Z workers should take advantage of the resources available to them to enhance their skills and navigate the corporate world more effectively. By finding common ground and embracing mutual learning, both parties can create a more harmonious and productive work environment for all.
