Gen Z really wants digital workplaces
Younger workers are dissatisfied with their outdated office setups and are calling for digital transformation in the workplace, new research from SD Worx suggests.
With an increase in hybrid and home working, many companies have risen to the challenge by providing employees with the right hardware and software to get things done wherever they are, such as video conferencing and collaboration tools.
However, SD Worx claims that the often neglected behind-the-scenes processes need just as much attention, if not for the business, as for the continued satisfaction of the youngest segment of the workforce.
Technologies in the workplace
The report shows that more than half (54%) of Gen Z workers (those born between the mid to late 1990s and early 2010s) are looking to “better digitize HR processes and solutions in the workplace” .
SD Worx says this highlights a “sharp focus on digital solutions that bring improvements such as speed and convenience to the employee experience” – something that has become vital as more employees open up to considering career changes at a time when every penny counts .
The company believes that streamlined digital booking of vacations and absence requests should be a priority in addressing employee dissatisfaction, but not at the expense of a personalized experience.
This is proven by more than 70% of employees who claim they prefer a personalized onboarding session, collaboration with colleagues and a departure interview.
Work is already underway to improve the employee experience: 53% of European companies have already invested in better digital HR processes, according to a survey of more than 4,000 companies, with countries such as the UK and Belgium leading the way.
Beyond HR, it seems Gen Z workers are excited about the digitization of health and wellness, which has become an increasing priority for employees in an effort to retain staff.
UK HR Country Lead for SD Worx, Colette Philp, describes the current circumstances as a “war for talent” with companies having to bid high to both attract and retain a new generation of staff.
Philp continues: “Employees are very clear about what they want… our research shows that employers are listening.”
