If you want to hire and keep great people, you need to know what matters to them.
Gen Z and Millennials make up a huge portion of today’s workforce, and they’re not exactly shy about what they expect from an employer.
They want purpose, balance, support, and flexibility, and they’re more likely to leave if they don’t get it. The good news? Meeting their needs not only attracts new talent, but it also re-engages and improves retention with the people you already have.
Let’s get to know each generation, their similarities, and how to attract and retain them in your team.
Who Exactly Is Gen Z?
Gen Z includes those born between the mid-to-late 1990s to 2012. While some are just entering the workforce, others, especially the older members, have been in full-time roles for nearly a decade. This generation values authenticity, flexibility, and mental health support. They care deeply about company culture and want their employers to offer more than a paycheck.
Who Are Millennials?
Millennials, often referred to as those born between 1981 and 1994, are now in their late 20s to early 40s. They’ve had more time in the workforce and are often in leadership or senior-level roles. While they’ve adapted to more traditional workplace expectations over time, many of them still crave the same things Gen Z does: recognition, flexibility, and meaningful benefits.
Shared Values That Matter More Than Ever
Although Gen Z is more vocal about what they want, most Millennial employees value the same things, especially when they’re available. The difference is that Gen Z may consider these as deal breakers, while others may see them as long-overdue perks.
Some examples include:
- Work-life balance: Both groups want boundaries between work and home, even if they handle them differently.
- Mental health support: All generations benefit from and appreciate wellness programs and flexible time off.
- Opportunities to grow: Neither generation wants to stay stagnant. Upskilling, mentorship, and professional development go a long way.
- A sense of purpose: Millennials helped push this trend, and Gen Z has made it non-negotiable. Both want to feel that their work matters.
The Gen Z Standard Still Appeals to Millennials
Employers should know that their workplace improvements won’t go to waste. In fact, most team members will be excited to see changes like updated benefits packages, HR technology that supports flexibility, and more inclusive leadership. What’s considered progressive for these groups often feels refreshing and overdue to others.
Where the difference may show up is in dealbreakers. Some Millennials might tolerate rigid schedules or limited wellness support because they’re used to it, but they’d still choose better options if given the chance. Gen Z, on the other hand, may walk away entirely if those needs aren’t met.
The bottom line? If your workplace supports the expectations of Gen Z, you’re also setting yourself up to retain and re-energize your existing team regardless of their age group.
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Supporting a Multi-Generational Workforce
When your culture is centered around people, it resonates with staff members at every stage. The benefits one generation prioritizes often appeal across the board, strengthening loyalty and satisfaction company-wide. When your team feels supported, heard, and cared for, everyone wins, no matter their age.
Partnering with a PEO like Vested HR gives you the tools to offer better benefits, flexible HR tech, and meaningful cultural support that meets the expectations of both generations. From employee wellness to upskilling opportunities, we’re (in)Vested in helping you build a thriving, future-ready team. Reach out to our HR specialists today to schedule a complimentary consultation!