Gen Z don’t have the best reputation when it comes to work. Some unfair stereotypes floating around about them is that they are entitled and work-shy. When this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Gen Z are those born between the mid 1990s to early 2010 and they’re slowly replacing millennials as the new ‘young’ generation of workers. Fearlessly ambitious and entrepreneurial, these young workers have seen the mistakes made by parents and grandparents. And are creating opportunities for themselves while keeping the important things at the forefront of their minds.
Here are five tips from the younger generation that we should all follow.
Mental Health Comes First
The Gen Z lot have watched us older lot suffer from burn out for years. They’ve seen their elders push mental health to the side and not let it take priority and suffer the consequences. As a result, this age group puts mental health first and isn’t afraid to bring it up in the workplace. This may be by speaking up about issues they’re having and requesting time off accordingly. Or even leaving a workplace if their policies aren’t up to scratch. We should all take note from this refreshing attitude and not be afraid to question the norm at work when it comes to mental health.
If it’s Not Right, Don’t Stay
Boomers and, to a lesser extent, millennials, often have the attitude of company loyalty. The notion that if you put the years in, you’ll be rewarded but that isn’t always the case. The younger workers tend to view employment as transactional and as something they do in order to enjoy life outside of work. This also means that, if things are not entirely to their liking at work, they’ll be on the lookout for other opportunities and that is no bad thing. Sometimes company loyalty isn’t the answer. Think like a Gen Zer, if it doesn’t feel right, walk away. 09
Hustle Like You Mean It
Gen Zers are the masters of the side hustle. No other generation has been so entrepreneurial as many young people feel that a traditional 9-to-5 isn’t enough for a fulfilling career.
Flexible working makes it easier for people to run businesses or take on other jobs throughout the day. And having multiple income streams in today’s world couldn’t be more important.
The side hustle also allows you to monetise hobbies such as writing or art which may not be possible for a full-time role. It’s also important to look out for employers creating the illusion of flexible working.
Do What You Love
Not as money driven as previous generations, Gen Zer still know their worth but are motivated by more than salary. A good work-life balance, benefits, flexible hours and other perks are just as important and given the choice between a better paid job and one that meets their personal needs, many would choose the latter.
Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Your Mind
Some old school bosses might not appreciate the candid nature of the Gen Zer. As most of the workforce in this age group are not afraid to challenge the norm and speak out.
While many millennials and boomers may relate to the ‘start early, finish late’ and ‘eat at your desk’ mentality. Gen Zers are happy to start conversations about well-being and flexibility at work.
One thing Gen Zers want more of is flexible working, to access flexible working jobs visit our jobs platform here.
