3 Gen Z trends to watch out for: what managers should know

Gen Z trends are ever-changing and can be difficult to track and implement. This generation has grown up with fast-paced technology, so their latest interests also tend to move fast. Figuring out which trends are here to stay is key for managers to better connect with and motivate Gen Z employees. 

Business leisure, or “bleisure”, trips began as an incentive appreciated by Millennials. But it now stands out as one of the big Gen Z trends in the corporate world. More and more young professionals carve out time for personal vacations before or after work trips, to the point that it’s become one of the biggest trends in business travel.

Despite having only recently entered the workforce, Gen Z is already travelling for work. 66% of Gen Z business trips are extended for leisure, compared to 61% of work trips by Millennials. 

There’s a direct link between business travel and job satisfaction. 83% of business travellers in Europe report that their experience on work trips impacts their overall job satisfaction. 83% also said that their business travel experience impacts their business results. Managers who prioritise traveller well-being may notice an improvement in Gen Z employee retention and results.

Most of Gen Z grew up with smartphones as an integral part of their lives. They use them to do everything from communicating with friends to purchasing products and making reservations. 

This generation’s demand for instant booking gratification is widely reported. According to Skift Research, 62% of older Gen Z in the UK (19-22 years old in 2019) have used ride-hailing services. Apps such as Uber and Uber Eats have become the norm. The latest technology removes the need to pay by cash or give directions for drop-off locations. 

Mobile-first technology is one of the core Gen Z trends that managers should take into account. It makes sense to tap into the apps that Gen Z is already using their personal lives. Uber for Business allows for a seamless transition between personal and business benefits, removing the need for additional applications and clutter. 

Gen Z cares about the environment more than most who’ve come before them. It’s now reached the point that they’re starting to impact travel for older generations. Gen Z trends like this can easily be incorporated into many corporate policies, too, especially when it comes to transportation. 

Managers may want to provide greener business travel options, whether it’s offering teleconferencing alternatives or using greener ground transportation. There are many attractive and effortless incentives to appeal to Gen Z’s preferences for sustainable options.

With a growing fleet of electric cars and its participation in projects like the London Clean Air Plan, Uber is tapping into this growing need for sustainable transport. Companies can sign up for an Uber for Business account to gain access to a corporate solution for commuting.

Although Gen Z trends may seem complex and fast-moving, at their core they’re fairly straightforward. Experienced-based, mobile-first and sustainable options can easily be incorporated into your company policy, often simply by tapping into existing products and companies like Uber for Business. By catering to Gen Z’s needs and expectations, managers can achieve great results for both employees and the organisation.