Canada\u2019s first national survey on Gen Z<\/a>. In a series of blog posts, we are sharing some key insights and data, which highlight Gen Z\u2019s unique perspectives on life, work, and learning.<\/p>\nGen Z (those born between 1996 and 2012) are graduating postsecondary school and are now entering the working world. This means that, like all generations before them, this cohort is already thinking about their careers and how they will be successful.<\/p>\n
Gen Z understands that in order to get ahead, they need to contribute to the organization and be a great team member. This realistic perspective is revealed in how this cohort perceives their role in the workplace:<\/p>\n
\n- Eighty-four percent of Gen Z believes it is very important or somewhat important to be able to follow company rules and expectations<\/li>\n
- Seventy-four percent indicate it is important to \u2018do what your boss tells you to do\u2019 in order to have a successful career<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
In addition, our survey respondents revealed clarity around business realities. They ranked \u2018making customers happy\u2019 as a key factor (85%) in their success, which demonstrates maturity as it relates to meeting business needs.<\/p>\n
Gen Z holds a practical view of what is required to be successful, ranking the top 3 most important factors needed to progress in their careers as:<\/p>\n
\n- The ability to adapt to change (88%)<\/li>\n
- Being a great team member (87%)<\/li>\n
- Being innovative and solving problems (86%)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The data from our survey suggest this generation understands the need to follow direction, respect authority and pay their dues.\u00a0 This is a departure from what we saw with Millennials and is remnant of more traditional values. We anticipate that this generation will bring different expectations into the workplace, but will not radically rock the boat.\u00a0 In fact, 67% of our survey respondents said they when getting a new job, they would \u201cfeel lucky\u201d to have that job, versus believing the company would be lucky to have them as an employee.<\/p>\n