The youngest current generation, those born between 2010 and 2024, will soon begin entering the workforce, and we need to consider what this means. Making up 6% of the current population, they’re the largest generation out there. And they’re going to be joining the workforce from the late 2020s onwards.
This group has only known the digital age, dealing with technology, AI and more from the earliest point in their lives. As such, they’re already well-informed about the different technologies and what it means to be online. This savvy generation is also rather different to previous generations when it comes to understanding consumer behaviors and attitudes. As a tech-driven group, Gen Alpha has been heavily influenced by TikTok, Roblox, and Minecraft, which means they take a slightly different view of things to the current workforce. With differing expectations, goals, and values, it’s essential that businesses know how to cater to these tech-savvy, socially aware workers.
Well-being and wellness
With studies showing that 65% of 8-10 year olds are already considering their mental health, it’s likely that wellness and mindfulness will be integral parts of Gen Alpha’s work life. Many are already saying they use tech less in order to go outside specifically for their mental health. Not only this, but they’ve grown up in a more flexible world, which means they’re going to be looking for more flexible and adaptable work arrangements. Already, an increasing number of businesses are offering four-day weeks or work-from-home options. Remote work and customized schedules are likely going to be the norm for this generation.
Solid digitization
As Gen Alpha have grown up with smartphones and social media, they’re natives when it comes to technology. In fact, most of their education and personal lives have seen them using a device that can access the Internet. As such, they’re highly proficient with technology, easily adapting to new software and capable of managing steep learning curves such as those found in the best project management tools. Any business with a fully integrated software system, and making use of the cloud and other digital capabilities, will mean any Gen Alpha worker will feel right at home. They also have the ability to be great at teaching others within the workplace how to make the most of specific technologies. That being said, their reliance on technology does mean they may have a slightly reduced ability to think on their feet or outside the box without having a helpful device at hand.
Great teamwork
Another positive from this generation is that they’re used to being connected. Collaborations are the order of the day when it comes to success on social media, and this generation is used to doing so. They’ve typically got a solid digital network in place, much of which is used to exchange ideas, chat, and stay connected and involved. Having such strong online cultures is something that can easily translate to the workplace. Rather than being all about themselves, Gen Alpha is often more focused on the overall good. So, any business that thrives on teamwork and digital learning or sharing will find Gen Alpha a huge asset. This group is likely to do well in such environments as they are able to work together. There’s also the possibility of them being good leaders within the workspace as well.
Socially conscious
Finally, this is a group that’s grown up being more socially conscious. And, they have access to all the resources, knowing how to find the information they want and need in minutes. As such, it’s all about fact-checking and transparency, so businesses will need to offer a more open culture and show strong aims and goals if they are to remain attractive options for this generation.
To sum up, there’s a great number of positives to working with the upcoming Gen Alpha group. However, as they’re very tech-savvy, have strong ideas, it’s essential to ensure the workplace complements this.
Photo: cottonbro studio via Pexels.
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