Sep 13, 2025
Written by Vera Donkers
Even though Gen Alpha will soon be knocking on your office door, Gen Z in the workplace remains a 'hot topic'.
The generation that "doesn't want to work". Nonetheless, by 2030, one third of the workforce will be made up of Gen Z and by 2035, even 80% will consist of millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha together (World Economic Forum). It's time to stop hitting snooze because their perspective on work is changing the job market.
While earlier generations remained loyal despite noise, Gen Z immediately checks whether the inside of an organization matches the outside. This can lead to conflict but also presents an opportunity. Because those who address what Gen Z values will build a future-proof culture for the entire team. Here are 3 tips for connecting better with Gen Z!
The main shifts in work mentality
New generations no longer settle for "this is how we do things here". Research shows how their work attitude is shifting:
Transparency
Gen Z wants to understand why decisions are made. They expect openness about policies, strategies, and finances. However, only 33% of employees believe their organization keeps its promises (Gartner, 2024). This is detrimental to trust.Values and meaning
According to Deloitte’s 2025 Gen Z & Millennial Survey, 94% of Gen Z sees meaningful work as a top priority. 40% have even rejected an employer due to a mismatch in values. For them, work is not just income; it is also identity.Learning & development
For Gen Z, learning doesn't stop after graduation. Almost 60% expect that AI will affect their careers and call for new skills. Only half receive training in this area (Deloitte, 2025). Development is not a nice-to-have for them; it’s a reason to stay or leave.Health and balance
40% of Gen Z feels "always or usually" stressed, often due to work or work-life balance. At the same time, 54% sees that employers are taking mental health more seriously. But stigma remains: 3 out of 10 young people still fear repercussions if they are open about mental issues.
Three tips to connect with Gen Z
The clash in work mentality is noticeable daily: while a manager thinks, "this is logical, isn't it?", a Gen Z member wonders, "why isn't anyone saying what is really going on?" It often isn't about tasks or processes but about conflicting expectations. Employers who ignore this lose connection. You can read more about this in our previous blog: [What goes wrong when expectations in teams remain unspoken].
3 tips to connect with Gen Z:
Live your values
For Gen Z, values are not just nice posters on the wall. Demonstrate how they are visible in decisions, leadership, and behavior. Every day.Growth is not an extra
Development is just as essential in your organization as coffee on Monday. Show that you invest in skills, coaching, and opportunities; Gen Z expects employers to make growth possible.Be straightforward
Share the 'why' behind decisions more often, especially when it's uncomfortable. Because no one sees through bullshit faster than a Gen Z member.
How attractive is your employer brand now?
The work mentality is changing faster than ever. You can ignore it or use it to your advantage. How strong is your employer brand? Know what resonates with the new generation and bring young and old together in the workplace.
👉 Take the free wake-up scan and check how well you are doing as a forward-thinking employer.
