Training for Generation Z

21st June 2021

As millennials get older, it is time for members of the Gen Z to step into the workplace. Gen Z refers to the individuals born between 1985 and 2010. Many of these individuals have already graduated, and plenty are on the verge of graduating. Either way, their presence in the workplace is set to surge within the next couple of years. With this new generation emerging in the workplace, organisations need to devise learning and development programs that align with their learning styles and preferences. Therefore, trainers can opt for options such as an online specialised train the trainer program to gear up their training skills for handling Gen Z workers. Importantly, trainers should be aware of this generation’s typical traits to address their needs. For example, the younger employees are not too uptight about wearing formal outfits and strict hierarchies. Thus, a more business-casual approach must be taken. Let us investigate some of the main learning trends underlying this generation.

• Gen Z workers like to learn by doing things. Yes, they are not a fan of traditional training sessions wherein knowledge is transmitted by the trainer and then discussed. A research by Barnes and Noble College shows that this generation prefers engaging in active learning environments and fully immersive educational experiences, to the point that they do not even realise that they are learning. At the same time, they like to relate to their personal experiences and integrate information from different sources. Thus, asking them to engage in an actual task and training them in the process can be more impactful.
   
• Generation Z has grown up with access to more information and technology than any of the other generations. That said, they are accustomed to gathering a wide variety of learning materials when the need arises. In fact, Gen Z is particularly a fan of learning through online videos, reading online study guides, watching recorded lectures, and simply locating information on the web. This is certainly accompanied by the traditional learning tools for reading textbooks and attending online lectures. Interestingly, a Pearson study found that 59% of the Gen Z population prefers learning by watching YouTube videos, and 55 percent claimed that YouTube has significantly contributed to their education, learning, and/or personal development in the last 12 months. In fact, members of this generation watch an average of 68 videos each day across all social platforms. Hence, integrating learning with social media has become imperative.
   
• Gen Z prefers collaborative learning. With the onset of social media and the internet, individuals have become more connected than ever before. Subsequently, the Gen Z members wish to extend this virtual, social experience in their respective workplaces as well. They prefer face-to-face interaction, and according to a Pearson study, 57% of them enjoy in-person activities with the other learners. Importantly, for this generation, the boundary between the online and offline world is blurred, and they hence prefer online interactions such as chats, and posts as means for learning as well.
   
• Members of Gen Z also enjoy autonomy and flexible learning. They often like to be left on their own and desire to have control over their learning experience. Allowing them the freedom to choose their own topics and activities can pave the path for self-motivation and attention.
   
• Mobile learning can be a useful option for this generation as it basically survives on their phones and tablets. Everything in their lives is embedded into their devices, and thus, learning must also be fitted into the devices that they use regularly. What is more, they can flip between 5 screens at a time, on average.
   
• With climate change, global warming, plastic pollution, and other climate crises on the rise, this generation prefers sustainability. Hence, companies should devise training programs that utilise sustainable tools. For instance, virtual learning to avoid travelling, and online documents to prevent paper waste can be a few choices.

A modern train the trainer certification includes content around how to deal with Gen Z learners. This has become predominantly important for HR managers and trainers as they need to modify their approach to training so that they can make the most out of this new generation of workers. To do so, not only do they need to study their learning styles, but a better comprehension of their ethos, culture, and attitudes is required to keep them engaged and motivated.

Written By : Shivangi Chakraborty