Generation Z in the UK: More of the Same – High Standards and Demands

Abstract

Research on the characteristics of Generation Z in the United Kingdom is sparse and thus this generation is largely unknown. However, it is likely that the characteristics of Generation Z in the United Kingdom largely represent a continuation of the trends in attitudes and expectations seen over Generations X and Y. This is a group that has grown up to have high expectations of employment, including a desire for interesting and meaningful work, regular feedback, employee voice and participation, work–life balance and the development of marketable skills. As this cohort of the population was born into an environment with Web 2.0 technology and social media, they are also constantly connected. However, in the past two years, this group has continued its development against the backdrop of political and economic uncertainty due to the United Kingdom’s forthcoming exit from the European Union. More research is needed in order to establish the impact of these events on the younger generation’s attitudes, and those of subsequent age cohorts.

Citation

Parry, E. and Battista, V. (2019), "Generation Z in the UK: More of the Same – High Standards and Demands", Scholz, C. and Rennig, A. (Ed.) Generations Z in Europe (The Changing Context of Managing People), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 89-107. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-78973-491-120191013