Effective Leaders Lead Cross-Generationally

Effective Leaders Lead Cross-GenerationallyEffective Leaders Lead Cross-Generationally

You may have heard a lot about Gen Z as they are entering the workplace in greater numbers. In terms of leadership it is incumbent upon us to understand their preferences and expectations. How are they shaping the future of workplace culture and leadership? If you are going to attract and retain this generation, you must understand what drives them and how they differ from their predecessors. Drawing from recent workplace research, this blog will explore the top criteria Gen Z consider when choosing a job and outline what effective leadership looks like to them. Here’s a look at the top five expectations Gen Z have for their leaders and strategies you can use in your leadership to foster an environment that meets these needs.

1. Authenticity and Transparency

Gen Z values authenticity and transparency from their leaders more than any previous generation. According to a study by Deloitte, 83% of Gen Z employees prefer a straightforward and honest leadership style, and they are more likely to be loyal to organisations that uphold these values [Deloitte Insights, 2020]. You can create this environment by:

Communicating openly about company challenges and successes.
Being transparent about decision-making processes, which helps build trust and demonstrates integrity.

2. A Strong Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are not just HR buzzwords for Gen Z; they are essential criteria for an ideal workplace. A survey by Glassdoor found that 76% of Gen Z job seekers and employees consider a diverse workforce an important factor when evaluating companies and job offers [Glassdoor Employment Confidence Survey, 2021]. You can cultivate a DEI-focused culture by:

Implementing inclusive hiring practices to ensure diverse talent pipelines.
Promoting inclusive policies and training, which not only support a diverse workforce but also foster a sense of belonging.

3. Professional Development and Career Growth

Gen Z is keen on acquiring new skills and advancing their careers. LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report reveals that 87% of Gen Z employees see learning as the key to their job satisfaction [LinkedIn Learning, 2021]. You can support their development through:

Offering regular training and upskilling opportunities tailored to individual career paths.
Providing clear and actionable feedback which helps them understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

4. Work-Life Balance and Mental Health

Gen Z has a pronounced appreciation for work-life balance, with a significant emphasis on mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, Gen Z is more likely than other generations to seek professional help for mental health issues [APA Stress in America Survey, 2020]. You can encourage a healthy balance by:

Adopting flexible working arrangements such as remote work options and flexible hours.
Promoting mental health awareness and resources, including access to mental health days and professional support services.

5. Social Responsibility and Ethical Leadership

Finally, Gen Z expects their leaders to not only be business-savvy but also ethically grounded and socially responsible. A report by Cone Communications found that 94% of Gen Z believes companies should address urgent social and environmental issues [Cone Communications CSR Study, 2020]. You can meet these expectations by:

Prioritising corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives that align with Gen Z values.
Leading by example in ethical behaviour and making socially responsible decisions that reflect the company’s values and mission.

Creating the Right Environment

To create an environment that resonates with Gen Z, leaders must embody the values and practices that this generation holds dear. This involves more than just superficial changes; it requires a deep, organisational commitment to these principles, demonstrated consistently in company policies and leader behaviours. By embracing these values, leaders can not only attract Gen Z talent but also inspire loyalty and drive among their teams, fostering a productive and harmonious workplace.

As the workplace continues to evolve, the ability to adapt to the needs of younger generations will be a hallmark of successful leadership. By understanding and addressing the expectations of Gen Z, leaders can ensure their organisations thrive in the changing landscape of work.

If this resonates with you and you want a plan to help you then contact me here.

Mark Billage

Mark’s passion is to help realise individuals’ potential, be they leaders or team members, through empowering organisational culture. He has spent 7 years leading an organisation based in the non profit sector. In that time, he focused on creating a culture that enabled and empowered individuals, with the aim of seeing a high performing team better able to achieve the organisation’s mission.

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