Jenni Bedell on How Gen Z is Redefining the Workforce

Gen Z is redefining employer expectations, and it could be a good thing.

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate America, one generation is already leaving an indelible mark on workplace standards: Generation Z. And their influence makes sense, considering they will soon make up more than a quarter of the workforce.

Jenni Bedell, Practice Leader for OneDigital HR Consulting in Tennessee, recently shared her opinion on the significance of this generation’s impact on the workforce in an opinion editorial with USA Today.

Gen Zers are radically different from every generation before them, and those differences are reflected in their career aspirations, working styles and behavior. They hold more space for human experience and social responsibility, and they want their employers and company culture to reflect their same values.
 
— Jenni Bedell, Practice Leader, HR Consulting, OneDigital Tennessee

So, this all sparks the question: How does a company craft a total rewards program that aligns with the values of younger workers? 

Jenni says for organizations that want to benefit from the best of what Gen Z has to offer – technological know-how, fresh perspectives, impassioned ideas and thirst for innovation – giving them purpose by allowing them to be a part of the decision-making process is a great place to start.

Other non-negotiables for this up-and-coming generation include soft benefits such as remote and flexible work arrangements and child care offerings.

Each generation brings its own strengths and challenges to the workforce, and Gen Z is radically changing the way we view careers and the workplace, serving as catalysts for a new set of standards and values.

To read the full article on how employers can support Gen Z workers, click here.

To learn more about bridging generational gaps in the workplace, check out this recent feature: Why We Need to Talk To Gen Z, Not About Them.