The oldest members of Gen Z are starting to enter the workforce. However, that’s left many companies wondering what to do with employees in their early twenties, especially when many other employees are millennials or Gen Xers.
If you’re trying to launch a new business, though, don’t overlook Gen Z throughout your hiring process. They have a lot to offer startups, including creativity, education, and unique opinions.
The generational traits of zoomers could be an incredible asset to your company. Understanding how they want to work and tapping into their characteristics can help your startup’s success, and contribute to your longevity.
Let’s take a closer look at why those generational traits matter and how you can attract the right zoomer employees.
The Benefits of Gen Z Workers
There’s no denying we’re living in a digital world. No matter how great your business idea is, you’re going to need some kind of tech experience to reach a target audience, market effectively, and keep things running smoothly.
Hiring zoomers is a great way to stay on top of tech trends and ensure your employees know how to run a business from the back end. From social media marketing to programming, this generation has grown up surrounded by technology. They’re not just formally educated when it comes to digital devices – it’s been a part of their lives forever.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits of hiring zoomers. It’s important to let go of any stereotypes you might have or myths you’ve heard. Gen Z isn’t typically as impulsive and financially irresponsible as some people want you to think. In fact, studies have shown that young adult members of Gen Z have more manageable debt and better credit scores than their millennial counterparts. They are less likely than you might think to make impulsive business decisions on their own, so you can rely on them to be collaborative problem-solvers and think things through.
Finally, this is a generation that has been used to flexibility and adaptability from an early age. They tend to work well with others, do well with change, and have no problem sharing their opinions when they think it will improve an outcome.
Between their comfort with new tech and their ability to adapt to almost any situation, Gen Z’s traits can fill just about every need your startup has for a successful launch.
How to Retain Gen Z Employees?
So, how can you attract zoomers to your team?
It starts with understanding what they’re looking for in a job.
All of those positive traits listed above are also things that will attract them to your business, including:
- Flexibility
- Adaptability
- A healthy work-life balance
- Transparency
Zoomers expect a positive and encouraging workplace environment and aren’t likely to settle for anything less. They want to be valued and understood, which is why things like org charts are so important. They help everyone to feel seen and connected, establishing a unified environment where everyone knows their role and knows who to turn to for help or collaboration. That’s especially helpful if you’re launching a business that is mostly remote.
Finally, make sure your business stands for something. This generation is hyper-aware of global issues like climate change, and many want to make more sustainable life choices. By establishing a company environment that promotes a positive societal impact, you’ll attract the right people, and they’ll be proud to work for you.
It’s time to let go of any misconceptions you might have about zoomers. They’re a necessary piece of the puzzle for your startup, and can help your business grow from the ground up.
