Gen Z in the Workplace: Emphasizing the Need for Frequent Feedback

Early studies on Gen Z in the workplace reveal that they highly value continuous feedback and communication. Growing up in a more technologically advanced world than previous generations, Gen Z is the first to be born into an era where the internet is a constant presence. This trend is expected to continue with future generations. Currently, however, Gen Z is in a unique position.

Before Gen Z, technological progress had already accelerated significantly and is expected to continue. The question remains whether this rapid advancement is beneficial and if it will persist indefinitely.

The Tech Sector report from the 2020 Edelman Trust Barometer found that over 60% of people are concerned that technology is advancing too quickly. The Trust Barometer surveys people from various age groups, and as generational balances shift, people might become less anxious about technology.

At some point, the internet evolved into its current form for all of us.

Gen Z growing up with this technology is significant because children can learn quickly. Mastery of a skill is more likely when learned at a young age. However, a digital-first lifestyle also encourages instant gratification and direct, personal communication.

Additionally, Gen Z doesn’t hold on to outdated knowledge. Fixing a cassette tape with a pencil or recognizing the sounds of an ADSL dial-up are nostalgic but not useful today.

Why Feedback is Important to Gen Z in the Workplace

A 2018 survey by the Center for Generational Kinetics found that over 65% of Gen Z employees need frequent feedback, ideally at least once a week, and some even more often to stay in their jobs.

While feedback can reduce turnover, which benefits businesses, it is also crucial for Gen Z employees. Feedback shows management’s interest in their well-being and career development. Employees, regardless of generation, value feedback for the direction it provides. Feedback and approachability are key to preventing disengagement. Thus, Gen Z’s push for a feedback-centric work culture can benefit employees of all ages.

How Gen Z Thrives on Feedback in the Workplace

A study of 1,400 Gen Z professionals found that many handle feedback well, with 63% preferring timely and constructive feedback. They often have a positive attitude toward negative feedback, with 80% believing that failure is a learning opportunity, a significant increase from previous generations.

This highlights Gen Z’s strengths and the effectiveness of structured feedback. Consistent feedback is necessary to fill gaps, as performance reviews alone can sometimes do more harm than good. Poor performance management can make reviews feel like mere formalities and cause employees to dislike them.

Tools for Providing Feedback at Work

For regular workplace feedback, especially for Gen Z employees, the right technology is essential. While emails and spreadsheets might suffice for small start-ups, larger organizations need specialized solutions.

At Zensai, we offer employee check-ins, with customizable questions and update frequencies controlled by leadership and managers. Whether checking in or reviewing updates, it takes just a few minutes. Various question categories provide a range of qualitative and quantitative data.

Our Recognition question allows employees to highlight each other’s accomplishments. Managers can view answer histories and provide immediate feedback when needed.

Remote Work and the Feedback Conversation

Remote work has become highly popular and successful, but it also caused many, including Gen Z employees, to feel isolated during the pandemic. A study found that 79% of remote UK workers felt less connected to colleagues, with the figure rising to 81% for millennials and 85% for Gen Z.

Ensuring that Gen Z employees feel connected to the workplace is crucial. Small interactions can help remote staff feel part of the team. Apps like Microsoft Teams can be useful for checking in with remote employees.

However, it’s important not to overdo it. Almost two-thirds of Gen Z respondents reported that excessive video calls hinder productivity. We discussed the dangers of micromanaging remote employees last month, which is worth considering.

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