A conversations with Gen Z about leadership (and other topics)
Last week Maryna and I were joined by Matt (based in UK) and Zhibek (based in Kazakhstan) for their candid views on the world from a Gen Z perspective
We discussed many topics including:
=> Corporate loyalty - recognising that job hopping is seen as a practical method for skills development. And while 40% of Gen Z would stay long-term if work is attractive, company lifespans and market disruption now make a 'job for life' unrealistic and shift the balance of power between employer and employee
=> AI - discussing concerns about how generative AI is robbing us of human interaction and AI’s role in hiring creates a destructive arms race, burdening both recruiters and applicants, with some jobs receiving up to 1,000 applicants. It's bots vs. bots!
=> We discussed the importance of creating an identity and friendships outside of work through diverse interests (including gaming) and sleep as a great re-set button after difficult days
=> We also discussed leadership and what attributes are expected of the best leaders today:
Gen Z seek leaders who are accessible and relatable, that connect across hierarchies, treating people equally and fairly with regular feedback and mentorship. They value leaders that build human-centric inclusive cultures, avoiding over-use of technology which can alienate.
Anther attribute of a modern leader, which we touched on is vulnerability, looking at how this generation is breaking social norms in the workplace and on platforms such as LinkedIn.
This plays out in something I saw recently at the theatre - 'This is England' is the story of Gareth Southgate's leadership as manager of the English football team. Gareth was open and honest about the effect of missing 'that' penalty in the semi-final against Germany in 1996 and encouraged others to be open as well, employing a psychologist to help the team overcome fear of failure. It's a fascinating account of how one man shifted a patriarchal culture making a lasting impact.
In conclusion
=> While Gen Z are digital natives they oppose technology that dehumanises and value human connections
=> Corporate loyalty is a thing of the past. Worklife balance, flexibility and an identity outside of work matters
=> They value inclusive, non-hierarchical, relatable leaders that value mentorship and care about your growth
=> Gen Z will jump ship if their employer is not chartering a purposeful course, especially to gain new skills and experience
You can watch the full interview here - Gen Z vs. Corporate Culture: What’s Really Happening
Look out for next month’s episode
