Quick-reads

Generations come and stay for decades. Each has something about it that defines financial habits, work culture, consumption, etc. But there are few that can shape and change opinion, politics and even topple governments.

Gen Z did that… This is a quick look into what makes Gen Z, a generation steeped in the smartphone, a force to reckon with.

It’s 3 things. Yes, just these 3 things:

1. LGBTQIA+/ gender fluidity and inclusivity – This is a defining feature of Gen Z. Unlike other generations, they’re not exploring or toying with the idea, they know. They are stating it with confidence and tell me how many of you write he/him or they/ theirs on LinkedIn? They’ve established woke culture and gender dynamics and it has had far reaching ramifications. It has changed the notion of a family as we know it, it has changed work place dynamics and political parties are now adhering to inclusivity and talking about it avidly because they aim to please. To say the least, Gen Z has a very different personal life compared to millennials or Gen X.
2. Socio-political awareness – I’m going to say they’re born with the smartphone and they’re digitally very savvy, which automatically means they’re very well informed and opinionated. They are talking about politics, creating opinion and analysis because they’re not just content consumers but veer towards being content creators. And they keep it real, raw and unfiltered. They are talking, sharing, organizing and influencing. Little wonder then that they are influencing politics and the social fabric.
3. Work life and mental health – No other generation has been hit by mental health issues as much as Gen Z. ADHD has reached epidemic proportions. They’re dealing with depression and anxiety much more than previous generations. It could be a by-product of lifestyle and loneliness or even COVID but it’s here and they demand accommodation and work life balance while also managing freelance engagements. Work from home or hybrid arrangements have become a preferred option. That’s fodder for thought for employers and a cue to bring lasting changes.

It’s very hard to understand Gen Z. It can seem like non-issues have taken centre stage and this is unique to this generation. But there’s no debate that this generation does have a lot to teach us and wields power over many aspects. As I always say, it pays to be a good listener.