WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Ally Wilkinson never anticipated her senior year at Wake Forest University would involve balancing a demanding full-time job at a global consulting firm while completing her degree. Like many in her generation, Wilkinson insists on a job that supports life balance, including socializing and exercise. Her bosses are supportive, though sometimes annoyed by her schedule adjustments.
Recent college graduates like Wilkinson are entering a workforce with a stark generational gap in workplace expectations. Many colleges are adapting their career preparation methods to bridge this disconnect. Students, having experienced educational disruptions due to Covid, often lack confidence in speaking up or responding to authority, a challenge as they enter professional environments.
Gen Z individuals, born from 1997 to 2012, prioritize mental well-being due to growing up amidst threats like school shootings and social media pressures. Surveys show a significant number of Gen Zers want workplaces where they can openly discuss mental health. However, some students prioritize self-care over accountability, according to Briana Randall from the University of Washington.
As young professionals demand work-life balance and flexible schedules, they face criticism as being “unprofessional” or “entitled.” A 2024 Intelligent.com survey revealed 51% of managers find Gen Z employees frustrating, with 27% avoiding hiring them. Universities are now emphasizing career preparation that includes teaching basic professional skills like email etiquette and workplace demands.
Johns Hopkins University, for example, has shifted its career counseling from a job-focused approach to one centered on personal fulfillment, aligning with Gen Z’s desire for meaningful work. This new perspective is essential in a difficult job market, where application numbers have surged. Teaching students to align careers with personal values helps them adapt to changes, as seen at institutions like Johns Hopkins.
Employers face challenges adapting to these expectations. Nick Bayer, CEO of Saxbys, notes that while flexibility is important, meeting job requirements remains crucial for all employees. Generational differences in workplace expectations persist, yet young workers bring valuable skills, such as AI efficiency, that can enhance productivity.
Professor Heidi Robinson of Wake Forest University highlights the need for practical skills training, such as dining etiquette during business meetings. Her courses aim to equip students with these skills, acknowledging their eagerness to thrive in the workplace despite lacking certain experiences due to the pandemic.
Robinson emphasizes empathy for young professionals as they navigate new work environments. By understanding different generational perspectives, workplaces can better support these emerging talents.
Related Links:
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