In the past 10 years of working with the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers Community, a network of people between the ages of 20 and 30 working to address problems in more than 450 cities around the world, I’ve seen firsthand that they are the ones with the most innovative ideas and energy to build a better society for tomorrow. Transparency, accountability, trust, and a focus on stakeholder capitalism will be key to meeting this generation’s ambitions and expectations.
Understanding a new generation - Depending on who you talk to, Gen Z consists of anyone born after 1997 or between 1995-2012. “Keep in mind they grew up in a digital world”
Generation Z has always known technology. They didn’t grow into it as Millennials did, it has been a staple since birth. For them, technology is a necessity. They are able to instantly find the information they need or want. Because of this, you need to have a handle on your online presence and advertising. Your business must have a significant presence on social media outlets. Gen Z wants to align with the brands that reflect their values and is purpose-driven, so be sure to highlight the heart of your business.
Gen Z and careers:
The youngest generation has been disproportionately affected by the dire economy, at the height of the pandemic in April, the unemployment rate for teens aged 16–19 was the highest of all groups, at 31.9% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Owing to this, career plans are up in the air and this young generation is learning to pivot, fast.
There are early signs of Gen Zers gravitating towards job security, opting for jobs in the civil service, as well as in health and science sectors. It is also a generation changing the traditional success metrics, shifting it away from fame and fortune to ethics and values. Research found that 82% say it’s important that their job contributes to the greater good and 70% would rather
do something meaningful than make a lot of money.
In my opinion, Generation Z is the generation that will change the world in the best version, being part of this generation, we are responsible for solving the problems created by previous generations. We were born at that time when information technologies began to develop, and we are armed with the best digital skills because we grew up with the technologies!
I am more than sure that we will build a better, friendlier, and more beautiful world and we will not leave so many problems to our descendants.