Generation Z
Generation Z – who are they and what makes them stand out?
Generation Z, also called Generation Z or the Internet Generation, is a group of people born roughly between 1995 and 2010. In the sociological literature, there are also terms such as generation C (from “connected” – always connected) or generation iGen. They are young people who grew up in a fully digitized society, and the internet, smartphones and social media accompanied them from an early age.
Unlike previous generations, e.g. millennials, its representatives do not remember a world without the Internet and mobile technologies. For them, their whole life takes place simultaneously offline and online, and they find themselves in social media and virtual reality with the same ease as in everyday contacts.
Representatives of Generation Z in Poland
In Poland, representatives of Generation Z are people born after the political transformation. They grew up in a free-market economy and globalization, where they used modern technologies since childhood. Unlike slightly older people who had to learn how to use the Internet, Z-ets grew up with its development.
Representatives of Generation Z are sensitive to the issues of equality, ecology, health and climate change. She is more and more often and more willing to engage in social actions and grassroots initiatives, treating them as a natural element of adult life.
Characteristics of Generation Z
Generation Z distinguishes several characteristics that distinguish them from other groups:
- is the Internet generation, for whom communication takes place mainly through social media and instant messaging,
- prefer flexible forms of employment instead of working in one company throughout their lives,
- expect work-life balance;
- attach great importance to mental health,
- value direct feedback from employers and supervisors,
- are open to the possibility of remote work anywhere,
- Many of them dream of starting their own business.
Financial stability is also key for Generation Z, although stable employment does not always mean tying themselves to one employer for years. They often prefer to change jobs, gain new experience and expand their acquaintances than to be stuck in a place that does not give them development.
Generation Z on the job market
In the labor market, Generation Z is entering adulthood, but is already posing new challenges for companies. Employers are surprised that Gen Z representatives expect more freedom, flexibility and a quick response from their superiors. For them, not only the salary is important, but also the atmosphere, company values and access to development tools.
Compared to representatives of earlier generations, e.g. Generation X or millennials, Z-ets are less attached to one company. They often change employers if they feel that the organization does not meet their needs or does not give them a sense of meaning. Importantly, representatives of Generation Z treat work as part of their lifestyle – they want to combine their professional life with their passions, and they expect feedback not once a year, but on an ongoing basis in everyday communication.
Generation Z vs. other generations
There are numerous discussions about Generation Z. Both the similarities and differences between them and millennials are emphasized, as well as the contrast with Generation X. Unlike older groups, representatives of Generation Z do not treat the Internet as a tool – for them it is a natural environment.
People born in the second half of the 1990s or the beginning of the 21st century perceive the world as a global network in which geographical boundaries are less and less important. This makes them more open to international cooperation and adapts to changes faster.
