We currently have 5 different ‘generations’ active (to a greater or lesser degree) in the workplace: Traditionalists, Baby boomers, Generation X, Millennials and Generation Z. In our recent article we looked at the impact of generational diversity at work. What we didn’t touch on is what’s coming up the tracks. Baby boomers are gradually leaving the workforce to retire and, at the other end, we have Generation Alpha (those born after 2010) racing up the tracks.
Whilst the oldest Generation Alphas are still teenagers and a few years off entering the workplace yet, they are starting to be analysed for their potential future characteristics.
HR teams need to be aware of Generation Alpha: who they are and what makes them tick. They are your talent pool for the future. And there will be lots of them! Generation Alpha is the largest generation in human history – over 2 billion people worldwide as at 2024. While it’s somewhat speculative at the moment, here are five emerging characteristics of Generation Alpha and how they might impact the workplace:
- Tech-savvy They are digital natives who spend hours and hours online. Virtual communication is second nature to them. They rely on technology to help them discover the world. They are the generation that had to adjust to remote schooling during the pandemic. As a result, they are not as dependent on physical contact with their peers as previous generations. Remote working will suit them.
- Climate advocates Generation Alpha have a high environmental awareness. Businesses need to have strong and transparent ESG strategies to attract them. Their global awareness is heightened by the barrierless digital ‘world’ into which they were born.
- Passionate about inclusivity. Inclusivity and representation isn’t just a HR requirement, it’s an intrinsic need for Generation Alpha. Growing up in a globally connected world, Generation Alpha have been exposed to various cultures, ethnicities, and perspectives from a young age. This fosters a natural acceptance and appreciation of differences. Generation Alpha students value treating everyone equally, highlighting a shift from older generations. Openly and visibly fostering a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion will be necessary to attract them to your business.
- Independent With the digital world at their fingertips from the outset, Generation Alphas are more independent and self-reliant than previous generations. They have been able to investigate options and make choices in all aspects of their lives from a young age. This independence is likely to follow them into the workplace. They will need to be managed carefully.
- Value authenticity and sincerity This is a big deal to Generation Alpha. Marketing fluff and fake news will not be tolerated. Businesses who appear insincere or out of touch won’t get far.
The necessity of succession planning in business mean that, before too long, you will need Generation Alpha. When you recruit, you will want to have the pick of the best. To do this, you need the business’s values, people culture and benefits package to appeal to them. HR would do well to bear them in mind when making any strategic calls in these areas over the next few years.
