As the workforce evolves, organisations must adapt their approaches to engage and empower the newest generation entering the workplace: Gen Z. With a new generation comes changing attitudes to work, so it’s vital that businesses understand and connect with young people entering work.
In this blog, we will explore practical strategies for engaging Gen Z in the workplace, while showcasing how Causeway can provide valuable insights and resources for organisations looking to collaborate with this dynamic generation.
Gen Z, defined as people born between 1997 and 2012, bring unique characteristics and values to the workplace. They are digital natives, with a desire for purposeful work, while placing huge emphasis on work-life balance. A preference for collaboration and diversity makes understanding their needs crucial.
Causeway recognises the significance of staying up-to-date with emerging generations, ensuring successful cross-generational collaboration within our business networking group. Easy-to-join memberships, like our Young Professionals Membership foster this kind of collaboration. This membership option provides easy access to Causeway's large network of influential senior business leaders and dynamic young professionals and allows young professionals to connect with their own and other generations.
Embracing Technology and Flexibility
Gen Z have grown up in a digital era and expect seamless technology integration in the workplace. Provide them with the latest tools and platforms for communication, collaboration, and project management, and they will thrive! Consider implementing digital communication channels, such as chat apps or project management software, to foster streamlined workflows that will help make your business comms more efficient.
The 2023 Deloitte Millennial and Gen Z Survey found that having a good work/life balance is this age group’s top consideration when choosing a new employer. Gen Z values work-life balance and the provision of flexible work arrangements, such as remote working options, is of very high value to them. Streamlining workflows and providing remote work options will be beneficial to all your employees in the long run, making your company more attractive to future hires.
At Causeway, we always try and offer a variety of in person and online events to connect with a wide demographic. We are also undertaking a website revamp to create an enhanced online experience for our members - streamlining online resources and providing a user-friendly platform for virtual connections between members. This improvement not only aligns with Gen Z's expectations of seamless digital experiences, but will also facilitate efficient networking and resource sharing for our members.
Creating an Inclusive Work Environment
Fostering an inclusive culture is essential to engaging Gen Z employees. As a not-for-profit business membership organisation, Causeway brings together professionals from across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. By fostering a diverse membership network, Causeway provides opportunities for cross-cultural and cross-generational connections. It serves as a platform where professionals from different backgrounds can collaborate, share insights, and contribute to a more inclusive business community.
To start creating a more inclusive work environment, we suggest actively promote diversity and equity within your organisation. Here’s a few ways you can make your organisation more inclusive:
Implement diversity training programs to increase awareness and foster inclusivity
Establish employee resource groups where individuals from diverse backgrounds can connect, share experiences, and contribute to the organisation's success
Pair young employees with experienced mentors who can guide and support their professional growth
Sponsorship programs can help Gen Z employees develop essential skills and expand their networks within the organisation.
Encouraging Growth and Development
Gen Z values continuous learning and professional development, so providing clear career pathways and growth opportunities will appeal to them. Offer regular performance feedback and opportunities for advancement. Also consider creating a development plan that outlines skills they can acquire and milestones they can achieve within the organisation to help meet their goals. Investing in learning and development resources can also support Gen Z's desire for continuous learning. Provide access to online courses, webinars, and workshops relevant to their roles and career aspirations.
Encourage participation in conferences and industry events where they can expand their knowledge and networks. Causeway’s Young Professionals Membership offers young professionals valuable opportunities to connect with industry experts, gain insights from experienced professionals, and foster mentorship relationships. It's a gateway to unlocking a world of professional growth and collaboration and offering access to options like this will help engage Gen Z in the workplace. It will also provide value to your business by improving employees' skills and lead to their growth.
Promoting Meaningful Work and Social Impact
Gen Z seeks purpose-driven work with a positive impact, so incorporating social impact initiatives into your organisation can help engage them in the workplace. The first thing to do is communicate your organisation's values and purpose clearly - showcase how employees' work contributes to a larger social or environmental mission.
Engage Gen Z employees in projects or initiatives that align with their values and allow them to make a meaningful impact. Support and encourage employees to participate in volunteer activities and community engagement programs. Organise company-wide volunteering events or provide paid volunteer days to allow Gen Z employees to contribute to causes they care about.
If you would like to learn more about designing and implementing an employer-supported volunteering programme you can read over CIPD’s employee volunteering and social action page. Team-wide volunteering is not only beneficial to the community, but can also help boost morale, foster teambuilding and ultimately increase productivity within your business.
A Holistic Approach is Key
Engaging Gen Z in the workplace requires a holistic approach that considers their unique characteristics and values. By fostering an inclusive environment, embracing technology, supporting growth and development, and promoting meaningful work, organisations can thrive and drive innovation. Causeway serves as a platform for organisations to implement these practical strategies successfully.
Leveraging Causeway's expertise and community, businesses can effectively engage and collaborate with Gen Z, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive workplace. At Causeway, we' are more than just a business network - one of our young professionals shared,
"What I like most about Causeway is the approachability, both as a network and on an individual level. It feels like a community rather than just a business forum."