PETALING JAYA: Integrating Gen Z employees into the workforce and leveraging their unique skills can enhance collaborations and lead to sustained success and growth, say human resources experts.
Jobstreet by SEEK Malaysia managing director Vic Sithasanan said Gen Z employees’ adaptability to new technologies and digital tools are significant assets.
“Their natural inclination towards teamwork and openness to sharing knowledge fosters a collaborative culture, enhances mutual learning and encourages cross-generational communication.
“Being tech-savvy and quick to adopt new technologies, Gen Z can be drivers of innovation and can help improve efficiency within any organisation if given the power to do so.
“Their fresh perspectives often lead to innovative ideas and creative solutions, which can be invaluable in project development and problem-solving processes,” he said when contacted.
He said work culture has evolved significantly with the entry of Gen Z employees into the workforce, largely through diverse communication styles, cultural cues and motivational drivers.
Gen Z also value career development opportunities over job security, he said, adding that this differed from baby boomers and Gen X.
“They also highlight the importance of fostering an inclusive work environment, where communication and transparency are key.
“This includes providing equal opportunities for employees of all ages to ask questions, learn and demonstrate their value,” he added.
Gen Z are defined as the generation born between 1997 and 2012, millennials are between 1981 and 1996, Gen X between 1965 and 1980, and baby boomers between 1946 and 1964.
Citing Malaysia’s expanding digital economy, he said the workforce will continue evolving.
“Hiring leaders must stay up to date on these trends and swiftly adapt their strategies to retain top talent,” he said.
He also advised job seekers, regardless of age or background, to keep an open mind.
“For Gen Z aiming to boost employability, taking proactive steps such as pursuing internships, building networks and improving interviewing skills can be advantageous,” he said.
While millennials still make up the largest workplace demographic, people development trainer Mallory Loone said Gen Z employees are rising and the largest shift in work culture would be with habits and language used.
“We have seen organisations where more senior personnel or bosses use Gen Z lingo at work to make things more appealing. The shift has also affected recruitment styles and leadership styles,” said Loone, who is the co-founder of Work Inspires, a people development company.
She added that it is not purely about accommodating Gen Z at the workplace but also attracting and retaining them.
“Every generation, regardless of experience and seniority has its different benefits, and it depends on what the organisation needs.
“We should hire based on capability and knowledge regardless of generation,” Loone added.
Usha Devi Arumugam, a human resource specialist at PeopleBiz Consulting, said Gen Z employees expect more transparency and clear reasoning behind tasks.
“They don’t respond well to forced instructions. Hence, organisations have to keep an open and flexible approach,” she said.
She said work-life balance, flexibility and having a say in matters were also important aspects when it comes to Gen Z employees.
“Empower them and don’t micromanage them. They want to be trusted that they know their job and are able to perform as such,” she added.
