How does Gen Z shape our work culture?

How does Gen Z shape our work culture?

Generation Z – born between 1995 and 2010 – expect authenticity and partnership, co-creation and diversity in input, not just from their peers but from their leaders as well. Quick to leave positions that don’t feel right, they seek workplaces that resonate with their values—equality, creativity, activism, and purpose. 

How does that fit with the culture here at VENZO? That’s what Danish cultural sociologist Emilia van Hauen helped us dive into at our Kick-off on Friday.

“In a world where four generations coexist in the workplace – Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z – we find that what unites us is far greater than what separates us. But by 2030, Gen Z will represent one-third of the workforce, and understanding how to lead, attract, and retain this generation is paramount to thriving as a business, not to mention making them thrive within the business,” Emilia van Hauen said in her talk. 

Raised with a greater sense of equality, where families are democratic entities that discuss where to go on holiday or what to eat for dinner, Gen Z operates based on emotions and they will counter a request for a personality test with their own demand that the boss present one as well. 

“This generation is shaped by social and creative media, where collaboration is natural, and hierarchy is often absent. They will follow a leader who places themself at the center of the group, not at the top of a hierarchy,“ Emilia van Hauen said. 

“But they also find it challenging to enter a workplace and contribute. They seek a sense of belonging and purpose. It’s this sense of contribution that gives people a feeling of legitimacy, but working with boomers and Gen X’ers who were raised to fit in and do what’s asked of them is very different from what Gen Z’ers bring to the group.”

Gen Z is already present at VENZO, and Torang Vesal, head of People & Culture, has actively and deliberately worked on creating a psychologically safe workplace. All employees are encouraged to focus on doing their best in their tasks, more than on living up to predefined KPI’s.

“We have worked diligently on creating a culture where hierarchy and rigid roles do not define our interactions. Rather, it’s the relationships between individuals, both internally and in collaboration with our customers, that are at the core of what we do. We believe co-creation trumps solo genius, and everyone’s input is valued. Listening to Emilia van Hauen, this aligns well with the behavior of today’s younger generation, so it seems we are already on our way,” says Torang Vesal. 

“Our task is to understand these core values of the younger generations – that leadership is not about being at the top but at the center, facilitating meaningful connections and fostering an atmosphere where diverse input is acknowledged and valued. If we manage that – and I would dare to say that we are already doing that – we’ll be able to include the new generation into our dedicated and talented mix,” Torang Vesal concludes after the talk. 

As we continue to navigate the digital landscape, VENZO remains dedicated to the belief that the best solutions come from the synergy of technology and the human touch. Our commitment to co-creation and inclusivity isn’t just a strategy; it’s the foundation of our identity, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of digital transformation, today and tomorrow.