They were born using the internet, are glued to Tik Tok and feel passionately about social justice issues. They are highly creative, actively creating and shaping culture. Yes, this is Gen Z, and they are our future.
The youngest generation of the workforce (1997 – 2012) has different goals and aspirations from previous generations. Employers are still figuring out how to meet them, so it’s a good idea for companies to start understanding their work values.
You might be surprised to learn, Gen Z actually prefers to go to office than work from home! (More on that later.)
If companies want to attract and retain Gen Z working professionals, they should strongly consider coworking offices to suit the particular needs of this generation.
I’ve read through several research studies on the topic of Gen Z, so here I’ll share six reasons why Gen Z prefers coworking.
Human Connection
How will the generation who grew up with texting and social media want to communicate at work?
Contrary to what most might think, Gen Zers in fact place a high value on personal time with others. Perhaps all that time spent on their phone makes them crave physical interaction more! Many research studies show that face-to-face interaction is their preferred communication method. The vast majority of Gen Z professionals value human connection at work. They want to go to the office instead of working from home all the time.
The office is no longer just a space to make money and slog; Gen Z is inclined to see the office as a place for socialization and fun as well.
Furthermore, ever since Google popularized open office layouts in the 2000s, they are now widely preferred amongst Gen Z.
The concept of coworking was partly built around the the goal of fostering connection and interaction with others. Coworking allows Gen Z to mix around in an open office layout and during their breaks. Coworking spaces also have shared communal areas and typically host lots of community events, so Gen Z have plenty of opportunities to network.
Flexibility
Gen Z doesn’t like to be stuck. They love flexibility and freedom. 68% want flexible working hours and this applies to their offices too. Gen Z prefers well-designed, versatile spaces with a good mix of quiet areas, meeting rooms, communal areas, casual seating and phone booths where they can move about seamlessly.
Utilizing a coworking space that comes with plenty of these facilities, allows for the balance of independent work and connection that Gen Z desires. They can choose to focus at their desk, jump on private video calls, brainstorm in breakout areas or have a coffee with peers. They thrive on having the best of both worlds.
Aesthetics & Amenities
Research highlights Gen Z ‘s huge belief in the power of creativity. Majority of respondents said they believe that creativity will be necessary to succeed in the workplace. Raised on a staple of Instagram, Youtube and Pinterest, they are highly visual creatures who place great importance on the design and “vibe” of a space to feel inspired and get their creative juices flowing.
Unsurprisingly, Gen Z isn’t a fan of drab gray furniture, cubicle walls and boring office design.
Modern interiors that incorporate a mix of trendy apartment furniture scores major points with them. Spaces should feel inviting, bright and vibrant.
Worth noting too is the Starbucks effect on office design. Café-inspired layouts are popular with Gen Z, with booth seating, lounge chairs, large island tables or modular furniture. Spaces should feel comfortable yet dynamic enough for collaboration and productivity.
Amenities are also a huge draw for Gen Z who embrace mental wellness and a balanced lifestyle- think coffee, beer on tap, games rooms, libraries, lounges, fitness classes and community events.
Coworking spaces are usually very design-driven with these specific goals in mind, plus they provide great shared amenities through economies of scale.
DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion)
They are the most racially and ethnically diverse generation, and grew up in a time where “woke” culture has gained significant traction. Gen Z are rejecting binaries and labels – they hold progressive values and believe representation is important. So say goodbye to traditional office hierarchies, Gen Z wants workplaces with an open and diverse environment – which coworking offers much more of than most traditional offices.
Coworking spaces are naturally more diverse and inclusive, bringing together people from a range of industries and demographics. Coworking strongly encourages community-building and collaboration across people from different sectors and all walks of life.
Cutting Edge Technology
Gen Z has never known a world without smart devices and internet. These digital natives live on the forefront of innovative technology trends. They are using it to create communities, solve problems and build potential futures they want to see.
Young people do not take kindly to their company lagging behind on the tech front. They would hate working in a “stone age” environment. Good coworking spaces often invest in the latest technology and IOT (internet of things) to ensure the most optimal work experience for members.
While it could be expensive for a single business to invest in the best tech, coworking spaces provides Gen Z with the latest conference call systems, projectors, Chromecast, high speed wifi, dedicated servers and more.
Upscaling Mindset
Personal and professional development in multiple areas is top priority for Gen Z. 44% say ambition is the most important factor in career success, and 51% will have a side hustle besides their primary job.
Rather than just working for a paycheck and having leaders who purely manage, research shows that the majority of young people want guidance and mentorship to excel in various interests.
Coworking spaces are the perfect place for Gen Z professionals to improve themselves. They can connect with other experienced professionals, who could help them broaden their horizons, expand their skill sets and enhance their network.
CONCLUSION
When you offer Gen Z a coworking membership or base your company in a coworking office, you can attract andd retain more talent. Gen Z is looking for flexibility, connection, creativity, mentorship and a lifestyle-driven experience in the workplace. We’re seeing a shift away from traditional offices, precisely because coworking is the new preferred way of work for Gen Z.
What do you think?