How Generation Z Is Expected To Shift Workplace Dynamics

Millennials have become the most prominent generation in the American workforce over the past few years, but Generation Z’s presence is trickling in and expected to make an impact on workplace culture.

Gen Z are the first truly digital-native generation and tend to want individual work rather than collaborative projects popularly seen in Millennial workplaces.

One thing these two generations have in common is schedule flexibility, but Gen Z still values having the option to work both individually and collaboratively.

“They don’t like the idea of sitting in a glass room and collaborating all day. They want independent time to work on projects,” said Corey Seemiller, an associate professor at Wright State University. “Collaborative spaces are potentially [going to be] used differently.”

Now, shared office providers are finding ways to accommodate more diverse working styles in order to retain and attract younger talent.

Kay Sargent, HOK principal and Director of the Workplace Practice, said that some firms are putting too much emphasis on younger generations in their designs and would better serve potential employees by implementing workplace design that serves all demographics.