Generation Z, technically defined as those born between 1997-2012, will soon make up the greatest percentage of those in the workforce. Working successfully with Gen Z’s and utilizing their strengths will become a key part of successful communications consultancies.

Nonetheless, there are concerns regarding their arrival in the communications workplace. I wonder where this misjudgment came from. Why should a generation widely known for being creative thinkers, problem solvers and digital natives worry us?

Is it simply due to the fact that we’re resistant to change? Or could it be the age-old fear of the unknown? Regardless, Gen Z will play an increasingly larger role in communications consultancies as time goes on, so we should accept that the sooner we adapt to the new reality, the sooner we will be able to learn about our changing workspace dynamics.

Ideas can come from anywhere, not just from the bosses

Gone are the days when fresh young consultants only looked up to their bosses to learn the ways of the world. Now we look both ways. Considering the concept of reverse mentoring, the older generations, need to accept that they have a lot to learn from Gen Zers.

It is also okay to say ‘NO’

Before we enthusiastically nodded at everything thrown our way at work or at home, even when we were mentally exhausted. But, as young minds have shown us, we must chalk out our boundaries when it comes to valuing our mental health.

When you are happy first, you can make the world a happier place

And that brings me to the next lesson the Gen Zers have taught us – the importance of self-care. While we were taught that life is all about getting that corner office and that promotion at any cost, they have taught us that work-life balance is of utmost importance. Rethinking what our institutions can offer to us, their employees, in return for greater efficiency, hard work and new ideas, has reshaped organisations for the better.

‘I’ in ‘Our’ makes ‘Us’ Succeed

The allure of this generation is that they have taught us that our uniqueness makes collaboration much more effective. An idea, I must confess, was previously shrouded by rivalry; which often resulted in an unhealthy or unproductive working environment.

Transparency is the way forward

These communicators are an outspoken generation. They are willing to share, and so should we. This leads to greater transparency and efficiency at work.

As Gen Zers enter the communications field, engaging with them may seem daunting. However, if we want to succeed, it is imperative that we come to terms with their values and with them. With the world evolving at a fast pace, there is no escaping the fact that we need to change too. The bigger question is, will we be ready to accept what we need for that change?

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