In today’s workplace, each generation brings its unique characteristics and preferences. Gen Z, the generation born between 1995 and 2010, is known for its political engagement and digital savvy.
This cohort entered the workforce during a pandemic and economic crisis, which has shaped their approach to work. They value autonomy, independence, and the ability to manage their schedules. These factors contribute to their desire to work more self-driven and self-directed.
A recent survey conducted by global recruitment firm Robert Walters sheds light on Gen Z’s work preferences. Out of over 1,200 U.S. professionals surveyed, less than 20% of Gen Z workers expressed a preference for working in a team environment.
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Surprisingly, 31% of Gen Z workers stated that they work better alone. These findings align with the experiences of individuals like Andrea Lopez, a 26-year-old account manager at a large tech company.
Lopez shares that she views collaborative projects as time-consuming. While she recognizes the value of collaboration when necessary, she prefers to work independently whenever possible.
Working alone allows her to efficiently gather insights and data before engaging in a team setting, enabling her to complete her work on time. Lopez acknowledges the importance of communication but finds excessive communication to be draining.
She prefers to conserve her energy and communicate only when it is necessary. However, Gen Z’s preference for working alone can sometimes create the perception that they are disengaged from their teams.
Managers in the Robert Walters report highlighted issues such as a lack of communication skills, teamwork, and critical thinking as barriers to younger workers becoming better collaborators.
It is crucial to delve deeper into the reasons why Gen Z workers may prefer to work alone, as there is more nuance to their preferences than generalized findings suggest. Tony Guevara, a 23-year-old who works in Latino engagement for the nonprofit Gen-Z for Change, emphasizes that his preferred working style is situation-dependent.
He enjoys working alone when he does not require assistance and can listen to music without interruptions, enhancing his productivity. However, he also appreciates having colleagues around when collaboration is beneficial.
Guevara believes that Gen Zers may choose to work alone due to judgmental work environments. Factors such as being unable to listen to uninterrupted music or even eating a snack during a meeting can lead to scrutiny from colleagues. The presence of others can create a sense of being under a magnifying glass, which can be uncomfortable.
Lopez adds that managers may misinterpret Gen Z colleagues’ absence from the office as a lack of team spirit. She emphasizes the importance of understanding that sometimes individuals need to preserve their energy.
It is essential to create a work environment that accommodates different work preferences and allows employees to bring their best selves to work. For instance, Lopez mentions utilizing a period of remote work to conserve energy and then returning to the office when her program managers were in town, enabling her to build relationships effectively.
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