Which generation do you belong to, dear reader? Personally, I belong in an intermediate world between the so-called Generation X and Generation Y (or Millennial). My birth year falls almost exactly on the transition. Which is why I can always talk about generational issues in a relaxed manner, as I don’t really feel like I belong to any officially named generation. But I find it plausible that there are similarities between people who were born and grew up in a similar time. Similarities that arise from the situation of the country at that time. Commonalities that also change the country – and our work.
Generation Y was already said to want to revolutionize the world of work. However, it is only the younger representatives from Generation Z who are really radical, those born between 1995 and 2010. Not only have they often grown up very sheltered – they also enter the job market at a time when they can make demands. Because they are scarce and sought after.
No overtime, more free time, but still responsibility, of course. Generation Z can now partially achieve what everyone has always wanted. Also, please don’t make any comments from the boss, but welcome excessive praise. You want to be involved, motivated, and a good salary to go with it. Dear reader, you’ve already noticed: Of course, these are all prejudices that by no means apply to all members of Generation Z (I know a few who are completely different).
And yet: In some companies there is a clash between old and young. After all, who is supposed to do all the work if the young people are no longer as willing to do it as they once were? Or is this creating a new power for employees that may ultimately help everyone?
In this special issue we ask the fundamental questions about Generation Z. And we tell stories about them. About arguments and reconciliation, wishes and disappointments. Of course, Generation Z also talks themselves. And we talk to those of them who, contrary to the cliché, work an incredible amount. The colleagues write about the creative means companies use to respond to new employees. And about those who come after: Generation Alpha.