Where should you start when trying to figure out the future of global mobility? How about Gen Z!

Move over, millennials?

As time goes by, generational work preferences impact our workplaces, so if you want to plan for the future of work, it makes sense to consider what the newest generational work preferences are. According to this article, though Generation X still holds the power in 64 percent of organizations, millennials are becoming decision makers and Gen Zers are infiltrating the workforce now. Born between 1997 and 2015, members of Gen Z are currently between 6 and 24 years old (nearly 68 million in the U.S.) and are bringing unique values, expectations and perspectives to their employers. They have grown up with technology. Smartphones, social media, online shopping and instant messaging have been a part of Gen Z’s daily lives since they were born.

Ryan Jenkins, a next generation speaker, shares that, "Fifty-five percent of Generation Z feel pressure to gain professional experience in high school and 75 percent of Generation Z said they were more worried about getting a job and starting a career than they were about finding a soul mate." In other words, work matters to this generation.

But what does Gen Z want from their workplace? They give a slight nod to mid-size companies, want a boss they respect along with a competitive salary, want a company that has diversity, and they have a realistic idea that they will have to put the work in to have a satisfying and fulfilling professional life. AND, let's note that 67 percent of Generation Z are willing to relocate for a good job. In some ways, Gen Z seems like ideal talent for assignment work, too. They have been exposed to the world, are great with technology, are willing to start at the bottom, they emphasize opportunities for career growth, want to stay at an employer a while (as long as they continue to develop), are autonomous and prefer face-to-face communication.

Gen Z also wants a "blend of high-touch and high-tech." They prefer a fully self-directed and independent approach, so technologies that allow them to create their own experience will be attractive. 

As your mobility team creates initiatives for the future of your global mobility program, have you taken the time to really understand what will appeal to Gen Z?