In today’s dynamic workforce, managers lead teams with individuals from various generations, each with unique characteristics, preferences, and motivations. Gen Z is expected to make up a more significant portion of the U.S. workforce than Baby Boomers for the first time this year, according to a recent Glassdoor trend forecast report.
As a Gen X manager, bridging the generational gap and effectively motivating and inspiring Gen Z employees requires understanding their distinct traits and leveraging strategies that resonate with their values and aspirations. In this article, we’ll explore practical approaches for Gen X managers to foster a motivating and inspiring work environment for their Gen Z team members.
Understanding Gen Z: The Digital Natives
Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z is the first fully digital-native generation. They have grown up in a world shaped by technology, social media, and instant connectivity. Generational expert David Stillman, coauthor of Gen Z at Work, emphasizes the importance of understanding their unique perspective, particularly their reliance on technology.
Given their digital fluency, Gen Z employees are adept at leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance productivity. Embracing digital tools and platforms for communication, collaboration, and task management can create a dynamic and engaging work environment that resonates with Gen Z’s preferences and enriches their contributions to the organization.
Cultivate Purpose, Meaning, and Entrepreneurial Thinking
Gen Z employees are driven by a desire for purpose and meaning in their work. As a Gen X manager, emphasizing the significance of their roles within the organization and providing opportunities for them to work on projects that align with their passions can foster a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Gen Z’s entrepreneurial mindset can also be harnessed within the organization by encouraging them to think creatively, challenge the status quo, and propose new ideas. Creating a culture that fosters innovation through brainstorming, ideation sessions, and experimentation can unleash the full potential of Gen Z employees and drive organizational innovation.
Gen Z knows the ease of setting up a “side hustle” and has an entrepreneurial perspective about work. Use that savvy to have them be an “intrapreneur” in your company. Using their ability to ponder, ” What would I do if this were my company?” helps them develop new ideas. A good intrapreneur is a “dreamer”. What will success look like one year from now? How will it feel? Without the dream or vision, you have no north star. As Stephen Covey famously said, “Begin with the end in mind.”
Embrace Flexibility, Autonomy, and Work-Life Balance
Flexibility is paramount for Gen Z employees who value work-life balance and autonomy. Offering flexible work arrangements, remote or hybrid work options, and empowering them to take ownership of their projects can demonstrate respect for their individual needs and foster a sense of empowerment.
Gen X managers, having experienced the evolving landscape of work-life balance themselves, often value flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance. Leading by example by establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life, supporting employee wellness initiatives, and promoting the importance of taking time off can create a supportive and healthy work environment.
Foster Continuous Learning and Development
Gen Z employees are enthusiastic about learning and personal development. Providing opportunities for training, skill development, career advancement, and encouraging a culture of continuous learning can enhance their skills and foster loyalty and engagement.
By offering coaching and training opportunities and collaborating with HR and L&D departments, Gen X managers can meet Gen Z’s expectations for growth and development while also investing in the organization’s future.
We have seen an uptick in Gen Z asking about opportunities for coaching and training as part of the recruitment process. They want to know they will work in an environment that will help them grow.
Promote Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are central values for Gen Z employees, who embrace diversity in all its forms. Fostering a culture of inclusivity, promoting diverse representation, and creating safe spaces for dialogue can empower Gen Z employees to bring their authentic selves to work and contribute to a sense of belonging.
Supporting Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), implementing diversity training programs, and actively addressing systemic inequities within the organization can demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion and harness the collective strengths of a diverse team.
Recognize and Appreciate Achievements
Gen Z employees seek recognition and appreciation for their contributions. Providing timely, personalized, and public recognition and encouraging peer-to-peer recognition can motivate Gen Z employees and cultivate a positive work culture.
By showing appreciation and celebrating successes, Gen X managers can foster a culture of appreciation and empowerment that inspires Gen Z employees to perform at their best. When we give specific feedback, such as, “When you led that project, you were clear and hit all the deadlines. What a great job you did using the strengths of your team.” Specific feedback like that raises dopamine levels and encourages them to continue. Dopamine is a “feel-good hormone” that gets triggered when we are given praise. Now, isn’t that better than just hearing “Good Job.”
Lead by Example
As a Gen X manager, leading by example is essential in inspiring Gen Z employees. Demonstrating the behaviors and values you expect from your team, serving as a mentor and role model, and fostering open communication and collaboration can earn the trust and respect of Gen Z employees and create a collaborative and empowering work environment.
In conclusion, bridging the generational gap and effectively motivating and inspiring Gen Z employees as a Gen X manager requires understanding their unique traits and preferences and leveraging strategies that resonate with their values and aspirations. By cultivating purpose and meaning, embracing flexibility and autonomy, fostering continuous learning, promoting diversity and inclusion, recognizing achievements, and leading by example, Gen X managers can empower Gen Z employees to thrive and contribute their best to the organization. By embracing generational diversity and harnessing the collective strengths of their team, Gen X managers can drive success and innovation in the workplace.
With these strategies in place, Gen X managers can build strong, collaborative teams that leverage Gen Z employees’ unique perspectives and talents to achieve organizational goals and drive long-term success.
