Generation Y and Generation Z workers - differences in career expectations
Many organisations are currently facing challenges due to differences in career expectations between different generations. Generation Y and Generation Z employees have different values, priorities and attitudes towards work. Understanding these differences is essential to successfully integrate different generations into the work environment and to foster collaboration and productivity.
CHARACTERISTICS OF GENERATION Y
Generation Y was born between 1982 and 1994 and is characterised by a strong need for autonomy, a high level of self-confidence and a desire to excel in their achievements, which must be recognised and appreciated. Generation Y emphasises individual freedoms and the need for work-life balance. They value the importance of technology in the workplace and therefore seek to innovate and increase efficiency through the use of smart technology.
CHARACTERISTICS OF GENERATION Z
Generation Z was born between 1995 and 2009.This generation of workers is quick to adapt to smart technologies, accustomed to constant change and a fast-paced environment. Generation Z workers are autonomous, creative, innovative and adaptable to new technologies and work environments. They are also characterised by high social awareness and a keen interest in social issues and a sustainable future. This generation also values workplace flexibility. Although they tend to change jobs more often, this is their strength, as they seek to gain new experiences and are not afraid of new challenges. Generation Z is more likely than Generation Y to be looking for a job that they can work from home.
DIFFERENCES IN WORK-LIFE BALANCE BETWEEN WORKERS OF GENERATIONS Y AND Z
Generation Z workers tend to postpone their personal life in favour of their career or other professional aspirations. They often choose to prioritise their careers and may sacrifice more time for work than for family. According to ,,Exploding topics“ 2023 statistics 40% Generation Z plans to change jobs in the next 2 years. This shows that Generation Z is willing to look for new career opportunities and to pursue their professional goals.
Generation Y is often struggling to find a balance between their personal and professional lives. Thanks to technology, they can balance work and personal commitments more effectively by choosing to work flexible hours, remotely or hybrid. Generation Y values work-life balance, paying more attention to family and activities that contribute to their personal well-being.
Z CARD INTERNET CARD, Y CARD WORK CARD
Generation Z, known as the internet generation, grew up with changing technology and its constant evolution. They are the first generation to have used the internet since childhood and to have seen its development. Their constant interaction with technology has given them a unique understanding of smart technologies to which they are able to adapt quickly. In the work environment, Generation Z readily embraces innovation and is able to apply smart technology to almost any job.
Generation Y workers, on the other hand, are more likely to emphasise work as an important aspect of life. They pursue their professional goals but also value work-life balance. This means that while they also use technology at work, they seek to integrate it into their lives in a way that helps them manage their time and personal life more effectively.
