By 2030, Gen Z is set to represent a substantial 30% of the workforce(1), infusing businesses with their vibrant energy and fresh perspectives. What is Gen Z? This generation of digital natives, born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s, brings unique skills and perspectives to the workplace.
However, this surge in the entry of Gen Z employees also poses the challenge of bridging the generational gap within the workplace. To capitalize on this diversity and foster a positive, productive environment, managers must take proactive steps.
This article suggests four practical changes to empower managers in leading a successful multigenerational team.
Passions and interests act as powerful connectors, when it comes to common interests, young and middle-aged generations can all show enthusiasm, regardless of generational gap.
At Dreamplex, our Community Managers have witnessed the seamless sharing of common interests between colleagues from Gen X, Y, and Gen Z. We saw colleagues of all ages enjoying a trending multiverse movie during our Movie Night together, competing with each other in an intense ping-pong match, or discussing passionately about different beers at our taste-test events.
These various community events can be customized to match the shared interests of your team, and ultimately creates a comfortable, casual environment that promotes communication, bonding, and erases generational gap.
Generation stereotypes are a common obstacle to team’s communication and collaboration. While a definite solution is difficult to obtain, there are strategies and practices managers can apply to create a more positive and empathetic viewpoint amongst generations.
Internal knowledge-sharing sessions emerge as popular practices that offer great values to corporate culture. During this session, managers can invite senior employees to share their extensive work experiences, while younger colleagues contribute fresh perspectives and insights on current trends. Mentorship programs, regular one-on-one meetings, and other initiatives further address generational gap, fostering a harmonious and inclusive work environment.
Recognizing that each generation and individual possesses distinct communication methods and workspace preferences is crucial. Avoid the pitfalls of relying solely on one method or type of workspace by offering diverse options that cater to different needs. For instance, instead of conventional cubicle offices, managers can utilize open spaces that promote freestyle communication, private meeting rooms for formal discussions, phone booths for focused calls, and relaxation zones for personal recharge time. Embracing greenery and natural light can also be beneficial, as 65% of Gen Z employees prefer offices with these elements.
Google, known for its innovative work culture, upholds the core principle that “Ideas come from everywhere.”(2) Managers at Google actively promote the pursuit of ideas from both internally and externally, recognizing that shared experiences and collaboration drive creativity and innovation within the organization.
An open work area with different seating styles to choose from.
To not only attract employees to the office but also foster meaningful interactions among colleagues, businesses should provide a flexible workspace that allows individuals to easily adapt their seating arrangements based on the tasks at hand. By embracing these diverse workspace options, companies can enhance collaboration, productivity, and overall job satisfaction among their workforce.
While younger individuals often embrace remote work and modern technology, experienced employees lean towards traditional office settings, valuing face-to-face interactions with colleagues. Deloitte’s 2022 report emphasizes that 44% of Gen Z employees would contemplate changing jobs if flexible work options were not supported(3).
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Dreamplex creates “A Better Day at Work” by perfectly meeting the needs of rapidly growing companies that understand their young employees expect more from their workplace.
With professional, flexible workspaces, top-notch hospitality services, and a collaborative community for mutual growth, Dreamplex helps businesses work productively while optimizing operational costs.
Join the community with tech experts and startup founders from TIKI, Zuhlke Vietnam, GFT Group, Vietcetera, at Dreamplex’s flexible office spaces in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
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