According to a new study by HiBob, 70 percent of managers have difficulty managing Gen Z employees. They cite issues like work-life balance expectations, salary expectations and attitudes towards authority.
Many UK workers feel that older generations lack creativity and adaptability.
According to the study, nearly a quarter of British workers (24%) would prefer older employees over younger ones due to concerns about emotional intelligence and professionalism.
However, 70% of respondents still prefer working with younger colleagues because they are innovative and flexible.
Gen Z Management: Challenges and Opportunities
The report outlines specific hurdles managers face when working with Gen Z (18-to-24-year-olds). Work-life balance (62%), expectations regarding salary (58%), as well as benefits (44%) are the biggest concerns. Managers also report that younger workers have difficulty with authority (41%), emotional Intelligence (38%), and professionalism (34%).
In spite of these challenges, the majority of UK workers acknowledge that younger employees are more creative and flexible, highlighting their importance in today’s dynamic work environment. They say that older generations often lack these skills.
Payroll issues are a key concern for Gen Z
Payroll accuracy is one of Gen Z’s top concerns. One in seven Gen Z workers (13%) thinks about their pay every day. Forty percent of Gen Z employees say that incorrect pay could cause financial stress, while 22 percent believe it can lead to job unhappiness or sleepless night. Gen Z employees are the most meticulous about reviewing their payslips. Thirty percent of them check for accuracy.
The emotional impact of incorrect pay varies across generations. Payroll errors are a source of frustration for workers aged 45-54, while they damage their employer’s trust (43%).
HR leaders play a crucial role in bridging generational gaps
The study highlights the crucial role HR plays in managing workplace issues between generations. Forty percent believe that HR leaders should be able to handle the challenges presented by younger employees. The vast majority of British workers (95%) agree that HR representatives should be at the executive levels, and 73 % think HR should play an important role in determining company strategy.
Despite this, a GoodShape Analysis of FTSE 100 Companies shows that only 40% have HR Directors on their leadership team, and just 31% have a Chief Human Resources Officer or an equivalent.
Toby Hough is the Director of People and Culture for HiBob. He comments: “The HR leader’s role has been undervalued because leadership teams have focused on business matters that don’t usually involve employee well-being or societal changes. Gen Z is one of the biggest challenges facing leadership teams today, according to our research. HR plays a vital role in helping each generation to maximize their potential.
