Memo to the Parents of Gen Z

16 Apr

Written By Cathy Buttignol

January 2022

How would you define your offspring?

Here’s how some adults describe them:

· Big picture thinkers – they think deeply about the future, others, and making it a better place.

· Technologically attached – this is not a criticism but a part of the way they operate and connect even when apart.

· Opportunity aware – often they will make their own way or create their own pathways.

Here’s how they define themselves:

· Inspired

· Presented with limitless worldly opportunity

· Open minded

· Liberated

· Confident

Here’s how McCrindle’s research defines them:

· ‘Digital Integrators’. ‘…they have integrated technology seamlessly into their lives, and having used it from the youngest age, it is almost like the air that they breathe, permeating almost all areas of their lifestyle and relationships.’

· ‘Globally focused’. ‘Not only are the music, movies and celebrities global for them as they have been for previous generations, but through technology, globalisation and our culturally diverse times, the fashions, foods, online entertainment, social trends, communications and even the must watch YouTube videos and memes are global as never before.’

· ‘Visually engaged’. ‘We have an emerging generation, many of whom are opting to watch a video summarising an issue rather than read an article discussing it.’

· ‘Educationally transformed’. ‘…for today’s students, education is no longer life-stage dependant (at the start of life, before the career commences), but a life-long reality.’

· ‘Socially defined’. ‘…today’s youth are extensively connected to and shaped by their peers.’

So, in my humble opinion what do they need from you?