Now we’ve come to the fifth and final installment in our series on generational characteristics. We’ve discussed Matures, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, and now we’ve come to the last and youngest generation – those affectionately known as the Zers.
Last, but Not Least
There are roughly 23 million individuals who can call themselves a part of Generation Z, all of which have been born since 1990. These individuals get a lot of negative press, but we believe it’s simply because they are misunderstood. They are savvy, smart, know what they want, and are not afraid to go get it for themselves. Other characteristics that could potentially affect how receptive they are to recognition include:
- Techno-brilliant. It’s not even fair to say these individuals are techno-savvy. They know what they are doing when it comes to technology with many Gen Zers having practically been born with a smartphone in their hands. The availability of technology isn’t a demand, it’s a necessity.
- Individualistic. Unlike the generation just before them, these individuals like to play and work alone. They are not used to being part of groups, mainly because so much of their lives are spent online, so they’re accustomed to flying solo.
- Encouraging Education. While it is predicted that this generation will earn more degrees, certifications and accreditations than any other generation in history, it is also said they will need encouraging when it comes to doing something meaningful with them.
- Away from the Poles. The freedoms of this generation will be exercised and expressed online rather than at the ballot box.
Recognizing Generation Y
If you’re ready to recognize a member of Generation Z, here are some tips:
- Focus on the individual. That’s what they are used to, and it’s probably how they made their recognition-worth contribution any way.
- Give credit to education and learning as factors that enabled the Gen Zer’s capabilities. It will serve to encourage further learning and growth.
- Keep it techno-focused. If it doesn’t have something to do with technology, the likelihood is that a member of Gen Z will have little or nothing to do with it. If you want to earn their respect and make the recognition meaningful, do it with technology.
The perfect example of how to make this work for a Gen Zer is to feature him or her in a magazine or newspaper article. Both have online versions these days, so you’ll be able to provide the personalized recognition in a manner that suits the individual.
The Next Step
If you’ve had the distinct opportunity to recognize a member of Generation Z in a newspaper or magazine article, then take the next step by having it preserved in a custom article mount from That’s Great News. We frame both print and online versions of feature articles to meet the needs of any generation.
And, working technology into the mix is easily accomplished as well, especially with the latest and greatest video plaques. With this breakthrough technology, you can mount video frames and include a unique QR code that provides a direct link to the original online video.
We will even show you how great it will look for FREE with a no-obligation, online preview. Start today!
