Who is Generation Z in the Workplace? Characteristics, Expectations, and Leadership

They’ve grown up with technology and social media and have high expectations of themselves and their surroundings. But what defines Generation Z, what drives them at work, and how can you lead them most effectively? Find (part of) the answer here.

By Christina Nielsen, Content Marketing Specialist, February 2025

Who is Generation Z?

Generation Z refers to the generation born between 1995 and 2012. They are the first generation to grow up with a constant stream of digital technology. They have never known a world without smartphones, the internet, or social media — and that has profoundly shaped their view of the world, the job market, and life in general.

This generation is characterized by being highly technologically competent, with a constant need to stay updated on the latest digital trends. Their approach to work, society, and relationships is therefore very different from previous generations — Generation Y (Millennials, born approx. 1980–1995) and Generation X (born approx. 1965–1980).

Generation Z is also the most diverse generation in history. According to Lederne’s Generational Analysis 2024 and Deloitte’s European Gen Z & Millennial Survey 2024, they are more culturally, ethnically, and value-diverse than any previous generation. They have grown up in a society that is more open, inclusive, and tolerant — something reflected in their values, identity, and expectations at work. For many young people, diversity, equality, and inclusion are not just ideals but expectations they hold for their employer.

Characteristics of Generation Z

To understand what Generation Z looks for in the workplace, it’s essential to understand their unique traits and behavioral patterns. Here are some of the key characteristics that distinguish them from previous generations:

1. Digital Natives: Generation Z is the first generation to have never lived without the internet, smartphones, and social media. This makes them true digital natives who expect every aspect of life — including work — to be efficient, connected, and technology-driven.

2. Fast Information Processing: They are used to receiving information quickly and in small, digestible formats through social media and apps. This makes them highly capable of processing large amounts of information, though it can also lead to challenges in maintaining long-term focus.

3. Social Responsibility and Sustainability: Generation Z is deeply engaged in social and environmental issues. They want to work for organizations that prioritize not only profit but also sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical business practices. They pay close attention to how companies contribute to society and the environment.

4. Mental Health: Generation Z er den første generation, der åbent taler om mental sundhed og dets betydning. De har en større bevidsthed om, hvordan psykisk velvære påvirker både personlig og professionel præstation. De søger arbejdspladser, der tilbyder støtte til mental sundhed og arbejder for at fremme en sund work-life balance.

5. Flexibility and Balance: Generation Z values flexibility — not just in working hours and location, but also in maintaining balance between work and personal life. They are drawn to jobs that offer flexible arrangements such as remote work and autonomous schedules, and they resist rigid, traditional work structures.

6. Career Development: Generation Z is continuously seeking personal and professional growth. They prioritize learning and career development and are attracted to workplaces that provide ongoing opportunities for education, mentorship, and upskilling.

What Does Generation Z Expect from the Workplace?

Generation Z has clear expectations for the workplaces they choose to engage with. Several factors play a key role in how they view a job and what they prioritize when selecting an employer:

1. Flexibility and Freedom

Generation Z has a strong preference for flexible working conditions. Many are used to working from home, collaborating digitally, and having control over how they structure their time. They’ve seen the advantages of technological progress and want to leverage them to create a workday that fits their individual needs and lifestyle. This means they look for workplaces that offer remote work options, flexible schedules, and autonomy in task management.

2. Sustainability and Ethics

This generation wants to work for organizations that focus not only on financial profit but also on making a positive impact on society and the environment. They are highly attentive to the ethical practices within their workplace and seek employers that implement sustainable solutions and take social responsibility seriously. They want to feel proud of the companies they work for and prefer organizations that promote diversity and inclusion.

3. Learning and Development

Generation Z is highly focused on career growth. They don’t just want to perform their job effectively — they also want to learn new skills and grow in their roles. They seek workplaces that prioritize both professional and personal development within a learning-oriented culture that values knowledge sharing and collaboration. As a result, they expect employers to provide ongoing training, education, and opportunities for advancement.

4. Workplace Culture and Values

For Generation Z, workplace culture and values are crucial. They seek environments characterized by inclusion, collaboration, and respect. Generation Z doesn’t just want to be part of an organization — they want to feel valued and respected as individuals. They look for workplaces that support both mental and physical well-being and foster a healthy, respectful, and supportive culture.

5. Technological Innovation

Generation Z is accustomed to the latest technology and expects their workplace to embrace modern digital tools. They want to work with up-to-date digital solutions and expect their organization to be innovative and tech-driven. Generation Z isn’t afraid to adopt new technologies and wants an employer that can harness technology to optimize workflows and communication.

How Should You Lead Generation Z?

Leading Generation Z requires a different approach than with previous generations. Here are some keys to successfully managing this generation:

1. Empathetic and Supportive Leadership

Generation Z seeks leaders who are empathetic and supportive. They want you, as a leader, to take the time to understand their needs, concerns, and goals. As a leader, you should be willing to provide personal support while also creating a work environment where your employees feel valued and respected.

2. Adapting Your Leadership Style

Generation Z responds best to leadership that is situational and tailored to their individual needs. As a leader, you should pay attention to each employee’s strengths, challenges, and motivations, and then adapt your leadership style to support their development and engagement.

3. Regelar Feedback

Generation Z values consistent and constructive feedback. They want to know how they’re performing and how they can improve. Leadership that provides ongoing feedback helps them understand their performance and gives them the opportunity to adjust their efforts. As a leader, you should ensure that feedback is specific, timely, and focused on personal development.

4. Creating a Meaningful Work Experience

As a leader, you should make sure the work feels meaningful to Generation Z. Members of this generation seek more than just a paycheck — they want to feel that their work makes a difference. You should communicate the organization’s values and purpose clearly and demonstrate how employees’ work contributes to the organization’s overall mission, value creation, and societal goals.

5. Using Technology to Foster Collaboration

Since Generation Z is highly tech-oriented, it’s important that you leverage technological tools that promote effective communication and collaboration. This can include using digital platforms, video conferencing, and cloud-based tools that support a flexible and productive work environment

It starts with You as a Leader

Generation Z is a generation with high expectations, seeking workplaces and leadership styles that support their need for flexibility, development, sustainability, and technology. As a leader, it’s essential to understand these needs and adapt your leadership approach to create an environment where Generation Z can thrive.

When you, as a leader, provide support, feedback, and opportunities for growth, you don’t just foster well-being and engagement — you build a workplace where employees thrive and perform at their best.

Tre generationer på arbejdsmarkedet – forskelle og fællestræk

Disclaimer: About Generations and Generalizations

The article is based on trends and research-based observations of the different generations in the workforce.

However, it’s important to emphasize that generational theory is always a simplification of reality. Individuals are shaped by much more than their year of birth – for example, by culture, education, industry, personality, life stage, and leadership experience.

The purpose of this article is therefore not to place people into fixed boxes, but to provide an overview of the patterns and values that often characterize different generations – as inspiration for leadership, communication, and recruitment.

In short: use knowledge about generations as a guiding framework – not a definitive answer.