Picture this: You’re in a meeting with a mix of colleagues, some prefer email threads, others favour quick Slack messages, and then there’s the Gen Z intern who sends a 10-second video update instead of writing a report. Welcome to the new workplace, where communication habits are changing fast.
Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, are digital native, collaborative by nature, and will soon be the largest generation in the workforce. With this demographic shift comes a change in workplace expectations, especially around communication and collaboration.
Unified Communications strategies, designed with previous generations in mind, must now evolve to meet the digital-first preferences of Gen Z employees.
Understanding Gen Z’s Approach to Communication
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z grew up in an always-connected, mobile-first world with smartphones, social media, and instant messaging as constant companions. They don’t just use technology, they expect it to be smooth, intuitive, and integrated. Traditional phone calls and email chains are often a no-go for them.
What Gen Z Wants and How Organisations Should Adapt
- Mobile-First, Always-On: Forget tethered desktops. Gen Z expects to communicate and collaborate from anywhere, on any device. UC platforms must prioritise mobile functionality and provide a consistent experience across devices.
- Flexible and Hybrid Work as Standard: A host of recent surveys show most Gen Z employees would consider looking for a new job if required to work in the office full-time. At the same time only 11% prefer fully remote work. Employers who fail to provide collaborative digital workspaces will struggle to attract and retain the best Gen Z talent.
- Universal Integration: Gen Z is used to apps working together. Gen Z employees expect UC platform to integrate with other business tools, from CRM systems to project management software. Siloed applications are a major turn-off.
- Video-Centric Communication: Growing up with YouTube and TikTok, video is second nature to Gen Z. High-quality video conferencing and collaboration tools are key to engaging this generation. Think beyond just meetings – consider video for training, onboarding, and even informal communication.
- Instant Communication and Real-Time Collaboration: Gen Z lives for instant communication. They expect quick responses and real-time collaboration capabilities. Asynchronous communication is still important but takes a backseat to the immediacy they crave.
- Personalisation and Customisation: Gen Z values individuality. They want their tools to be customised to their own needs and preferences. UC platforms that offer flexibility and personalisation will win.
- User Experience (UX) is Key: Intuitive design and seamless user experience are non-negotiable. Gen Z has high expectations when it comes to technology, and clunky or outdated interfaces simply won’t cut it.
- Beyond functionality, Gen Z is deeply invested in sustainability and ethical corporate practices. Factors like energy efficiency, carbon neutrality and ethical data practices not only influence recruitment/retention but also brand trust among younger employees and consumers.
The Impact on UC Investment Priorities
These generational preferences are reshaping UC investment strategies in several notable ways:
Visual Communication is Top of Mind
Gen Z’s affinity for visual communication, including emojis, GIFs, and video-first collaboration tools is driving increased investment in multi-modal communication. Organisations are investing in blended UC experiences that mix quick video messages, visual status updates, whiteboards and AI with traditional voice and messaging.
Unified Tools & Integration Vs. Single-Platform Solutions
Rather than forcing users into a single communication platform, organisations are investing in solutions that integrate well with other platforms, workflow apps and social tools. UC vendors too are expanding partnerships with complementary technology companies and standardising the UX. This recognises Gen Z’s comfort with managing multiple communication channels and their desire to have choice in how they interact.
Sustainability Matters
Gen Z’s strong focus on environmental sustainability is influencing UC investment decisions. Organisations are increasingly considering the environmental impact of their technology choices, from data centre efficiency to device lifecycle management. Sustainable UC solutions are becoming a priority in procurement strategies and vendor selection.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Considerations
AI Integration
Gen Z are comfortable with using AI-powered tools with 70% already using AI Generative AI Statistics for 2024 – Salesforce and forward-thinking organisations are taking notice. Investing now in UC platforms with AI capabilities, such as meeting transcription intelligent voice and Gen AI assistants can boost productivity and streamline communication processes. Longer term, Gen Z employees will expect AI Agents that enhance their output and UX to be provided as standard.
Cybersecurity and Privacy
Gen Z is particularly conscious of data privacy and cybersecurity. Having grown up in an era of high-profile data breaches and increasing surveillance, they expect organisations to prioritise security. This means that UC investments must incorporate end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and compliance with stringent data protection regulations.
Transparency in data handling practices is important too. Younger employees place high trust in companies who provide proactive communication around data and cybersecurity policies.
Balancing Multi-Generational Needs
While adapting to Gen Z preferences is important, organisations need to keep solutions that work for all generations in the workforce. This means investing in flexible platforms that support multiple working styles and communication preferences, ensuring inclusivity across different age groups.
The influence of Gen Z on UC investment strategy is undeniable. Businesses that align their UC platforms with the expectations of this digital-first, security-conscious, and flexibility-driven generation will gain a competitive advantage in workforce engagement and productivity.
Do you want to find out if your UC strategy is up to the mark?
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