Understanding Generation Z and preparing for Generation Alpha

In today's world of diversity and technological change, Generation Z is already changing the standard work environment, inasmuch as Generation Alpha has yet to enter the workforce and influence corporate culture. For our "In Our Focus" feature, we invited Maria Dineva, Head of Client Success and Strategic Development at Assert International Bulgaria, to share more on the topic. This article offers an in-depth analysis of how Gen Z and Alpha are influencing business strategies and corporate policies, and how companies can prepare for their growing influence in the work environment.

Over the past few years, comparisons and deep analysis of generations have been a hot topic for businesses. The understanding and perception of different generations with their principles, values, and work ethics are key in building long-term and sustainable policies. If just a few years ago the main focus was Gen Z and understanding them, it certainly now needs to be equally allocated to Gen Alpha. Despite the oldest members of this generation being just 14 years old, it is strategically important to prepare for their informed entry into the workplace and life.

1.What are Gen Z and Gen Alpha's perceptions of the work environment and corporate culture?

Maria: Both generations have their own distinct traits when it comes to work environment and corporate culture. We are more knowledgeable and informed about Gen Z, as a large percentage of the generation already has several years of work experience, while for Gen Alpha we are still in the exploration stage. Knowing that Gen Z highly values policies of inclusion, understanding, and social responsibility, for the youngest generation we can be almost certain that the development will go in a similar direction with a focus on environmental awareness and respectively conscious social activism and responsibility.

Unlike previous generational pairs in business, of which history says "very different", Gen Z & Alpha will rather represent the natural extension of a good foundation - one with a focus on the individual and the person as a person.

2. What are the key differences between Gen Z and Alpha and how might these differences impact society and the job market?

Maria: The differences for this pair are in the way they have grown up - while Z is digitally adaptive and quick adopter due to their encounters with various societal obstacles (COVID-19), Alpha is already being raised with artificial intelligence, digitized learning, and established and secure ways of being with technology. In a way, "Z" is the generation of "transition and stabilization" in the digital world, while "Alpha" is the generation that will optimize and upgrade.  All of this will invariably impact the job market with a restructuring of how businesses operate and internal organizational structures.  

3. How can employers prepare for the inclusion of Alpha in the workforce?

Maria: Employers could prepare themselves with information about the values of the youngest generation, on par with their awareness and perceptions of the world. The global changes that these two generations are forcing are already in place - implementing workable green policies as part of business strategies, through to those related to equality and human rights, regardless of race, gender or belief.  

The rules around social responsibility and innovation that we have come to know are in the past - Gen Alpha, supported by Gen Z, will be here to disrupt and change current beliefs about 'doing business' and working with people.