26-06-2025
Embracing Gen Z is future-proofing tomorrow
Born between 1995 and 2009, Generation Z currently represents 27 percent of the workforce, and projected to rise to 31 percent by 2035, making Gen Z the largest generation in the job market.
'Gen Z has introduced a wave of new skills, innovative ideas, and fresh perspectives to our company,' says Mauricio Pordomingo, Group Head of Talent at Zurich Insurance Group.
'Their creativity and tech-savviness are already making a powerful impact. To harness their full potential, we need to meet their expectations with meaningful experiences, growth opportunities, and clear career paths. Smart organizations know that embracing Gen Z isn't just future proofing tomorrow, it's about thriving in the present.' As the first generation to have grown up entirely in the digital age, they have never known a world without the internet, and their lives revolve around the latest technology – from smartphones to virtual reality gaming – and a diverse array of social media channels. This tech-savviness and dependency distinguish them from Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers.
They have also been labeled the 'first global generation.' Throughout their lives, they have been virtually connected to people across the planet, with access to global news, information, and content through social media and other digital channels.
'Having grown up in a highly digital, interconnected, and fast-paced globalized world, Gen Zs feel that there are few or no boundaries, whether in their real or virtual lives,' says Valerie Malcherek, a Gen Z employer branding specialist at Zurich Switzerland, whose role is to ensure that the business continues to attract and retain the brightest young talent.
'This world of endless possibilities means they have high expectations for their employers,' Malcherek adds. 'And they believe businesses have a significant role to play in addressing social and environmental issues.' A good work-life balance holds significant importance and is prioritised over climbing the career ladder, unlike previous generations, Malcherek says. 'Building friendships and fostering positive relationships with work colleagues is often more important than job titles. Gen Zs are also motivated by having a meaningful career that allows them to positively impact society. Many want to work for companies that align with their values and where they are empowered to drive change.' Gen Zs are entering a workplace that's changing rapidly – and some of that pace of change is being driven by younger workers, says Sally Henderson, Group Head HR Business Partnerships at Zurich.
'Many Gen Zs want to develop at a fast pace, and they expect their employer to match that pace with the necessary, tools, technologies and opportunities.' Henderson emphasises the need to treat all employees as individuals and avoid stereotyping by generation.
'Everyone has their own unique style, needs, goals and traits. It's important to create a sense of belonging where everyone feels valued and engaged. This requires building an open and transparent environment where all employees can thrive, work together and learn from each other.'
