Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion | Gen Z: The Future of Work is Face-to-Face

Generation Z – people born between 1997 and 2012 – have had a difficult start to their career. The COVID-19 pandemic rocked the world just as these workers joined the workforce. Instead of “suiting up” for the office, many started their careers from home or in a hybrid structure. Many have never worked onsite. Starting a career from home came with challenges, including lack of opportunities to build their network and limited access to on-the-job training.

Can you imagine joining a firm and not meeting your boss in person? Virtual technology has bridged the gap, but younger workers report finding it harder to build trust and develop genuine work relationships when virtual meetings are the only option. Networking doesn’t just mean building relationships with supervisors and senior staff. It also includes building work friendships and making contacts throughout the industry – vital connections in building a professional network.

Next, consider the learning curve for junior team members trying to get up to speed without the benefits of an office community. Instead of leveraging a colleague’s expertise, Gen Z may take it upon themselves to figure out the solution. While curiosity is a good skill, it may waste countless hours searching for information that could be passed along in seconds at the office.

Gen Z leads the generational pack wanting to work in person. A recent study by Joblist found that 57% of Gen Z want to return to the office. Employers are faced with the challenge of finding the optimal balance between remote and in-person work that fosters networking and training. HR can build programs that support the development of crucial workplace skills through mentorship. Develop training opportunities that bring staff together in-person, especially during those critical first 90 days of employment. And finally, consider the future of your workforce as you put new policies and procedures into place, specifically your return-to-office protocol. Gen Z represents our future leaders; their voices need to be heard.

Originally featured in UBA’s July 2023 HR Elements Newsletter.