GEN Z EXPERT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – GENERATIONS TRENDS, HABITS

What are Generation Z experts, keynote speakers and futurists saying about one of the largest generations in the workforce? And a population whose spending power is quickly on the rise? A lot, or so we hear, especially given that we’re practicing Generation Z experts and futurist keynote speakers ourselves.

Noting this, how about we recap a few points that may help you if you have questions about this cohort? Put simply: Gen Z refers to the demographic cohort of people born approximately between 1997 and 2012. Some top defining characteristics of the population are…

• Technology – First true “digital natives” who grew up immersed in smartphones, social media, internet. Tech-savvy and comfortable with digital world.
• Diversity – Gen Z is the most racially, ethnically and culturally diverse generation yet. More embracing of differences – a hot topic among Generation Z experts and keynote speakers.
• Social Justice – Passionate about social, economic and environmental issues. Supportive of progressive causes.
• Entrepreneurial – Interest in entrepreneurship and self-employment. Desire to shape own careers.
• Practical – Financially focused. Avoiding debt. Pragmatic about money and careers. Not as optimistic as Millennials.
• Traditional – Value family, religion and community. Seek financial security and education. Less concerned with “disrupting” traditions, or so other Generation Z experts tell us.
• Customized – Seek unique rather than mass experiences. Drawn to customization.
• Anxious – Concerns about economy, environment and violence contribute to increased anxiety.
• Realistic – Witnessed political divisiveness, financial crises. Pragmatic about enacting change.

I guess if you had to sum it up according to Generation Z experts: Gen Z is liberal, inclusive, diverse, entrepreneurial yet practical – shaped by seeing pivotal historic and social events unfold during their youth and teen years.