Welcoming members of Gen Z into the workplace is surprisingly different from prior generations. To ensure your effectively managing your Gen Z employees, check out my latest conversation with Mamie Kanfer Stewart on The Modern Manager where we talk about the unique needs of Gen Z and how managers can support these early-career folks to succeed in the workplace.
Key takeaways from this episode
Setting clear expectations is crucial: Proactively communicating guidelines helps Gen Z navigate professional norms confidently. Without spontaneous in-person interactions, clear standards for behavior, communication, and performance are essential.
Redefining professionalism together is important: Embracing new perspectives allows for updating outdated norms and adapting to modern values. Discuss foundational elements like respect and reliability while being open to change.
Modeling desired behaviors builds confidence: Demonstrating tasks firsthand empowers young employees to take on responsibilities effectively. Role modeling through job shadowing and collaborative projects helps them learn by example.
Encouraging proactivity and curiosity fosters engagement: Promoting open communication helps Gen Z become more engaged and self-directed. Regular one-on-one meetings provide safe spaces for questions and personal growth.
Investing early in leadership development empowers employees: Cultivating leadership skills from the start boosts productivity and innovation. Fostering a leadership mindset early on enables young professionals to contribute positively and feel valued.
You can find the original post and transcript of the episode on the The Modern Manager web site here.
About the The Modern Manager Podcast
Hosted by Mamie Kanfer Stewart, the The Modern Manager podcast is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive, and great work gets done. You can find episodes across all of your favorite podcast apps.
