Generation “Z” also known as the Click Generation, Generation Net, Digital Natives – The youngest of the “5G Workplace,” Generation Z, is just coming into the workforce. It’s premature to report on the impact of this generation, but we can expect these future leaders to bring their own attitudes and expectations to work, just like the generation before them. Generation Z members were surveyed in April 2013 to learn more about their expectations for their future work and identified some interesting trends. Soon they will be entering the professional workforce, ready to start their careers.

According to the research, 60 percent of Generation Z said that having an impact on the world would be more important than their jobs, indicating that organizations may be placing an even higher premium on corporate social responsibility in the future. Generation Z experienced the “Great Recession” and, in some cases, witnessed the impact of long-term unemployment on parents and relatives. They have also seen the cost of higher education rising, along with an explosion in student loan debt. As a result, Gen Z may place more value in work experience over education. A survey in 2010 found that 71 percent of millennial teens said getting an advanced degree was a life goal. By comparison, in 2013, only 64 percent of Generation Z agreed with that statement.

Research also suggests that Generation Z is even more technologically “plugged-in” than Millennials. One survey found that Generation Z has the highest level of technological connectivity, with many spending virtually all of their waking hours connected to a computer, tablet, smart phone, or other electronic device. Like the Millennial generation before them, this will affect their preferences and work styles – including how they communicate, how they gather information and learn, and how they work with others.

Today’s workforce is decidedly multi-generational. It is made up of five generations—Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y (or Millennials), and a smattering of Generation Z—whose life experiences have left indelible marks on their values and work preferences. This rapid and unprecedented demographic shift has many business leaders wondering how organizations will adapt to the “5G” workplace. Understanding the different generations and what motivates them, can help you develop strategies to attract, develop, and retain leaders in ways that are more relevant. The key to managing the 5G workforce is to appreciate the differences and focus on what they have in common.

Leaders with the most impact are those who can build and successfully manage great teams. Every day, we help our clients and colleagues achieve their highest levels of professional presence and personal effectiveness. That includes everyone on the ladder, from company presidents to project managers, to staff members. Contact us at 800-282-3374 to find out how we can help you impact your own productivity and the productivity of your entire organization.