The Future is Now: Harnessing the Potential of Gen Z in the Philippine Workplace

It doesn’t seem too long ago when websites like Buzzfeed and The Huffington Post were populated with content scrutinising millennials and their strange ways. But as the next generation starts to enter the labour force, the spotlight turns to a new breed of workers, Gen Z. 

In the Philippines, 65% of those born between 1997 and 2012 are already part of the workforce, taking part-time or full-time jobs. According to one study, 40% of the global labour force will be composed of Gen Z talents in less than 10 years. 

Below, we take a closer look at the post-millennial generation, their motivations and values and what this means for the workplace. We also provide tips to help managers leverage Gen Z's unique skills and advantages, creating a thriving workplace of supported and engaged employees.

Growing Up in Turbulent Times

To begin decoding Gen Z’s motivations and values, it’s important to understand what defined their transition to adolescence. Gen Z grew up during the financial crisis, multiple international conflicts, social and political polarisation, climate change anxiety, and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In the US, the older members of this generation are starting their careers facing growing inflation, an impending recession, a housing crisis, and mounting student debt. It’s not surprising that Gen Z is now enduring what US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy calls the youth mental health crisis. 

Throughout their lives, Gen Z has faced uncertainty about the future. This has resulted in a generation with a general distrust of the establishment and the status quo. 

Gen Z Advantages

The new generation has undoubtedly been dealt a difficult hand. However, they also entered the world with advanced technologies embedded in everyday life. While millennials were trying to wrap their minds around the concept of the cloud, Gen Z was using voice search to watch their favourite YouTube videos as young children. 

These digital natives are unparalleled when it comes to navigating emerging technologies. This proficiency has allowed them to embrace working smarter, not harder. Below are other Gen Z key strengths:

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Witnessing the rise of the gig economy while experiencing financial uncertainty, many Gen Z members exhibit a strong entrepreneurial spirit. They’re unafraid to take risks, explore unconventional career paths, and build their own ventures. This independent and innovative attitude fosters creativity in various fields and opens up previously unavailable economic opportunities. 

• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The constant influx of information and exposure to diverse perspectives train Gen Z in critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They use available tools to process information, challenge assumptions, and devise creative solutions to complex problems. This can be a valuable asset in a world facing unprecedented challenges. 

• Collaboration and Networking: Comfortable with online communication and platforms, Gen Z excels at collaboration and networking. They can build teams across borders, share ideas seamlessly, and leverage social networks to achieve goals. This collaborative spirit fosters innovation and unlocks the potential of diverse talents. 

• Social and Environmental Consciousness: Gen Z is the most environmentally and socially conscious generation yet. They actively advocate for climate action, social justice, and equal rights. Their heightened awareness translates into more responsible consumerism, community engagement, and a drive to create a more sustainable and equitable future. 

Recognising and nurturing these strengths will be crucial for building a future that leverages Gen Z's talent and contributions to create a more just, sustainable, and innovative world. Remember, while challenges and strengths might seem like opposing forces, they often coexist and shape each other. Understanding both aspects of Gen Z's experience allows us to create a supportive environment where they can thrive and overcome their hurdles.

Harnessing the Potential of Gen Z in the Philippine Workplace

Unlocking the immense potential of Gen Z goes beyond managing them. Collaboration is a critical part of how they operate. Here are some key strategies for tapping into their strengths and creating a dynamic work environment:

1. Fuel their purpose

Gen Z wants their work to have meaning. An online survey of 400 Filipinos aged 16 to 26 found that Zoomers aren’t just looking for a job; they’re seeking meaningful careers that resonate with their personal and professional goals. According to Fernando Paragas, dean of the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communications, this generation isn’t working to live, they’re working to thrive. 

In addition, Gen Z wants to know how their contributions differentiate them from the rest of the team. As such, communicating how and why their roles matter can better engage team members from this new generation. Here are some ways to facilitate these discussions:

• Set up sessions where you can ask them to share their unique skills and growth areas. Ask for ideas on how the organisation can contribute and provide development opportunities. 

• Initiate a dialogue about how each team member contributes to the team. This allows Gen Z to visualise how their efforts manifest toward the bottom line. 

Moreover, explaining how broader organisational goals positively impact the world caters to Gen Z’s innate desire to benefit society beyond just turning in a profit.  

2. Champion flexibility and growth

Research by the World Economic Forum found that 73% of Gen Z employees desire flexible work arrangements. The online survey mentioned previously echoes this, with respondents scoring “having multiple part-time work rather than one full-time work” high on the scale. 

In addition to offering flexible work arrangements to cater for Gen Z’s desire for improved work-life balance, investing in their growth is crucial for retaining talent. Organisations can achieve this by providing skill development opportunities, mentorship programs, and leadership training. 

According to JobStreet Philippines Managing Director Dannah Majarocon, while the desires of Gen Z talents may seem like high-maintenance demands, they’re valid. Adding, “Employers really need to ensure they are implementing practices that are healthy for workers to continue attracting and retaining talents.”

3. Empower with autonomy and responsibility

Don't micromanage. Trust Gen Z with challenging tasks and give them the autonomy to tackle them their way. Provide guidance and support, but allow them ownership of their projects. Remember, responsibility fosters accountability and builds confidence.

Letting go of the micromanagement crutch might feel counterintuitive, but it's an approach that yields exponential returns. By empowering Gen Z with autonomy and responsibility, you're building a generation of confident, innovative, and accountable leaders who will shape the future of your organisation.

4. Put a premium on their well-being

A generation often grappling with anxiety, pressure, and uncertainty values holistic wellness more than previous generations and expects their employers to provide a work environment that nurtures it. Here are some tips for creating a supportive workplace:

• Destigmatize mental health discussions: Encourage them to talk openly about their struggles, challenges, and anxieties. Create safe spaces for confidential conversations with trained professionals or peers. Establishing open communication and a culture of understanding are the first steps towards support. 

• Make mental health resources readily available: Offer access to therapists, counsellors, and online platforms providing mental health support and guidance. Accessibility is key to breaking down barriers and encouraging help-seeking behaviour. 

• Promote healthy work boundaries: Work-life balance is no longer a buzzword for Gen Z, it’s built into their psyche. Encouraging them to set healthy boundaries between work and personal life fosters a culture of self-care and prevents burnout. 

By prioritising Gen Z's mental well-being, you're investing in a more productive, engaged, and resilient workforce. Moreover, you're creating a workplace where they feel safe, supported, and empowered to thrive personally and professionally. 

5. Lead by example

To fully unlock Gen Z’s potential, embrace a leadership style that inspires, not dictates. Here’s how:

• Value their diverse perspectives: Gen Z brings fresh perspectives born from a digital world and a changing society. Embrace their different viewpoints, even if they challenge your assumptions. Remember, diversity breeds innovation and strengthens decision-making. 

• Be open to learning: Avoid clinging to outdated paradigms. Be open to learning from Gen Z’s tech savvy, innovative approaches, and their unique understanding of the world. 

• Share vulnerability to foster authenticity: Sharing your own experiences, challenges, and vulnerabilities builds trust and encourages Gen Z to do the same. This nurtures authenticity and strengthens team bonds. 

By embracing these strategies, you can transform your workplace from a rigid space to a thriving ecosystem where Gen Z can flourish. This young generation represents the future of your organisation, industry, and the world. Harness their passion, talent, and unique perspectives so you can build a brighter future together.