Here are eight significant differences between Millennials and Generation Z that will affect how organizations are structured, how communication happens in the workplace, how employees are trained, and more.
The upcoming generation eager to join the workforce is Generation Z. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Generation Z, also known as the post-Millennial generation, constitutes 25 percent of the population. (Check out this resource to learn more about Generation Z.)
Compared to only five percent who expect challenges working with Millennials, sixty-two percent of Generation Z anticipate challenges collaborating with Baby Boomers and Generation X.
Companies that grasp the expectations and preferences of these emerging generations will be well-prepared to attract new talent, unleash their potential, address cross-generational hurdles, and benefit from diverse thinking through a workforce that spans generations.
Generation Z vs Millennials: The 8 Differences You Should Know
1. Realistic vs Optimistic
Seventy-seven percent of Generation Z anticipate working harder than previous generations.
Millennials grew up in a time of prosperity and opportunity, influenced by their encouraging Baby Boomer parents. In contrast, Generation Z, raised during a recession by skeptical Generation X parents, will likely have a more realistic outlook. Pew Charitable Trusts reports that during the Great Recession, Generation Z’s parents experienced a nearly 45 percent decrease in median net worth.
2. Independent vs Collaborative
Seventy-one percent of Generation Z believe in the motto “if you want it done right, do it yourself.”
While Millennials often preferred collaborative settings, with desks arranged in circles, Generation Z tends to value independence and a do-it-yourself mentality. In fact, 69 percent of Generation Z would rather have their own workspace than share it.
3. Digital Natives vs Digital Pioneers
Forty percent of Generation Z prioritize working Wi-Fi over functioning bathrooms.
Millennials were pioneers of the digital era, witnessing the emergence of social media, smartphones, and the mobile revolution. In contrast, Generation Z was born into this digital landscape, growing up with ubiquitous connectivity and constant access to information.
4. Private vs Public
Seventy percent of Generation Z would rather disclose personal information to their pets than to their boss.
While Millennials often shared personal details on social media, Generation Z tends to be more cautious, preferring to keep their online presence more private. Platforms like Snapchat, with its ephemeral content, appeal to Generation Z’s desire for privacy.
5. Face-to-Face vs Digital-Only
Seventy-four percent of Generation Z prefer face-to-face communication with colleagues.
Although Millennials embraced digital communication tools for efficiency, Generation Z values in-person interactions, seeing them as more personal and meaningful. With experience in both online and offline communication, Generation Z is poised to strike a balance between the two in the workplace.
6. On-Demand Learning vs Formally Educated
Seventy-five percent of Generation Z believe there are alternative paths to a good education beyond college.
Millennials, burdened by student debt and uncertain job prospects, are reevaluating the value of traditional education. Generation Z is likely to explore alternative learning methods such as on-demand tutorials and on-the-job training.
7. Role-Hopping vs Job-Hopping
Seventy-five percent of Generation Z are interested in having multiple roles within one organization.
Millennials, accustomed to an on-demand culture, often seek career advancement and variety. Similarly, Generation Z is likely to pursue diverse experiences within a single organization to gain valuable skills and knowledge.
8. Global Citizen vs Global Spectator
Fifty-eight percent of adults worldwide over 35 believe that today’s youth have more in common with their global peers than with adults in their own country.
While Millennials were considered the first global generation, Generation Z is even more interconnected with peers worldwide. As the world becomes increasingly connected, Generation Z sees themselves as global citizens, transcending geographical boundaries.
