How Gen Z Can Better Integrate Into The Workplace

As seen on Forbes.

More Gen Z workers are getting into workplaces this 2024, and data suggests they may even account for 27% of the workforce by 2025. Gen Z are sometimes perceived to be lazy, unmotivated, and tech addicts. But as mentioned in our Manager’s Guide To Working With Gen Z Employees, it’s an unfair judgment and often makes it hard for them to be trusted and relied upon at work by older colleagues.

So, if you’re a Gen Z who’s onboarding into a new role and struggling to fit into the workplace, here are some tips on how you can better integrate: 

Understanding The Other Work Cultures

The first step to entering a new workplace is keeping an open mind and empathetic approach. After all, you will be facing a melting pot of work cultures and traditions with your new colleagues. 

Currently, a large chunk of the workforce is occupied by Millennials (born 1981 to 1996) at nearly 40%, followed by Generation X (born 1965 to 1980) at 36% and Baby Boomers (1946 to 1964) at 19%. So, while your generation is still outnumbered, take the initiative to learn about other work cultures like spending time with your co-workers at the pantry and asking questions to understand different values, customs, and communication styles. This way, you can easily navigate through office interactions by having them show you the ropes of the dominant office cultures.

When integrating into generational work cultures, you also have to recognize that what works in one generation may not necessarily work in another. Be willing to adjust your way of communicating and work style accordingly.

Waiting Before Making Requests

You might have encountered viral videos or trends pointing to changing office cultures, like setting boundaries immediately just as you start your new job. But, I recommend that you wait a few weeks before making such a request. 

A survey among more than 1,300 managers and business leaders shows that 74% of them believe that their Gen Z peers are difficult to work with. So, taking some time to wait will allow you to build rapport and relationships with colleagues and managers, which will garner more support for requests later on. Also, it will be easier for you to establish more boundaries and make requests once you’ve shown how valuable you are to the team or when management takes you more seriously.

Use the time to gather information, build alliances, and develop a compelling case to increase the chances of your requests being approved by management.

Being Patient With Others 

Times are changing and it will continue to change. In a few years, Generation Alpha (born 2010 onwards) will also start entering the workforce. And when that time comes, you’d also start having questions about their work culture and ethics. So, while you’re still the new kid on the block, practice being patient with others around you.

Friction may arise from the lack of understanding and the only way to resolve that is to keep calm and communicate how work could be accomplished smoothly. Behaviors don’t change overnight, and it will take time for your managers and other people in the organization to get used to how you do and deal with things. Be respectful at all times while you try to accommodate their needs and preferences to help prevent conflict. Instead of dwelling on your differences, focus on your similarities and find something to bond about to start a healthy working relationship.

These are things that you can do on your own, but if your office is holding training on generational diversity, take part in it. Get insights about the industry or job-specific skills, as there’s always something to learn from others or see things from their perspective. 

Remember that true integration is not about conforming to the existing norms in the workplace but embracing the richness of diverse perspectives. Embrace new opportunities to learn at the workplace as you strive for success in your new role. Good luck!