Tips for Attracting and Working with Generation Z

Over the past decade, there has been a lot of discussion about how to attract and retain millennials in architecture and design. However, recently, the focus has shifted toward Generation Z, or those who were born between 1997 and 2012. A large portion of this generation has either just entered the workforce or will be entering the workforce in the near future. Here are some tips for attracting and working with Generation Z.

Understand What Gen Z Values

Greatly influenced by the Gen X parents that raised them and the fast-paced tech world they grew up in, Generation Z values flexibility, work-life balance, collaboration, and frequent feedback. They have seen the effect of burnout and exhaustion on their parents, so they want a job that gives them a flexible schedule so they can work hard but still enjoy life. While members of Gen Z enjoy working with technology, they prefer working with technology in a collaborative environment that allows them to still have a healthy dose of human interaction. Gen Z’s education experience has emphasized feedback.

Attracting Gen Z

One way you can attract members of Gen Z is to create and market a company culture that values work-life balance, technology, and teamwork. At this point, many hiring managers have trained themselves to communicate with millennials. It is important that managers listen carefully when interviewing Gen Z professionals. You will learn a lot about how to effectively communicate with and appeal to members of Generation Z just by listening to them talk during interviews.

Working with Gen Z

Many of the members of Gen Z did not experience the traditional education their parents did. Between online schooling, self-directed learning, and alternative education paths, Gen Z employees may need customized training that allows for more autonomy and more interaction with technology. Gen Z also expects regular performance reviews. They don’t want feedback once or twice a year. They want feedback two or three times a week. Frequent feedback in the workplace helps members of Generation Z stay productive and goal oriented.

As Generation Z becomes a more prominent part of the architecture and design workforce, companies will need to adjust the way they attract and manage talent, so they can give Gen Z the tools and resources they need to succeed in the workplace. Some things to focus on include regular feedback, work-life balance, and self-directed learning opportunities.

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