7 facts about Gen Z that will help you better understand today's youth

1. They don't remember what life was like without the Internet
2. They are more quickly distracted
3. It is more convenient for them to study online, rather than traditional methods
4. They want to be entrepreneurs
5. They have a broader sense of their identity
6. They have a different attitude towards consumption
7. They are going to change the world

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Find out how people born from 1995 to 2010 are so different from their elders.

1. They don't remember what life was like without the Internet

Generation Z, or Centennials, are the first true digital natives. Since childhood, they are familiar with the Internet, social networks, selfies and Wi-Fi. They are accustomed to talking via video communication, and mastered the first games on their parent's phone.

Growing up in such conditions, they learned to easily collect and cross-check information from many sources. For them, technology is an integral part of everyday life, and there is no clear line between online and offline experiences.

2. They are more quickly distracted

Centennials are used to living in a world of constant updates, notifications and a constant stream of news. Yes, they process information faster, but they also get distracted faster. While scholars have disproved the popular myth that modern humans can concentrate for only 8 seconds, it can indeed be more difficult for centennials to stay focused on one thing for a long time.

Gen Z, on the other hand, are the multitasking champions. They can simultaneously work on a computer, search for information on a phone or tablet, and take notes in a notebook. Or do your homework on your laptop while sitting in front of the TV and talking to a friend over FaceTime. Previous generations cannot keep up with them in this regard.

3. It is more convenient for them to study online, rather than traditional methods

Centennials believe that it is not necessary to hire a tutor to improve a subject or master a skill, because everything can be learned on YouTube. They are used to online courses, podcasts, and DIY videos. It is easier for them to absorb information from digital sources than from textbooks.

4. They want to be entrepreneurs

The non-profit organization Girls With Impact researched the interests and views of young people aged 13-22. It turned out that 44% of centennials in the future see themselves as leaders of their own companies. 60% said they want to personally create something innovative. And nearly 30% of those surveyed believe that launching their business or product is the best way to boost self-confidence.

5. They have a broader sense of their identity

Centennials don't need to label themselves. They experiment with different ways of being themselves and simultaneously identify themselves with multiple groups, such as ethnicities. And the traits that have traditionally been the main ones (gender, sexual orientation, race) in their generation are increasingly revised and interpreted in a new way.

6. They have a different attitude towards consumption

According to international consultancy McKinsey, for Generation Z, consumption is access to something, but not necessarily possession. This attitude is gradually spreading to previous generations. Unlimited access to services (car sharing, video and audio streaming, subscription services) becomes valuable. Products turn into services, and services bring many users together.

Consumption becomes a means of self-expression. Unlike previous generations, for whom it was important to buy things from certain brands in order to fit a particular group, centennials value personalization more. They are willing to pay for something that emphasizes their individuality.

In addition, it is important for representatives of the new generation that the brand is ethical and. Centennials believe that the actions of the company should be in line with its ideals. Moreover, this applies to manufacturers, suppliers and all partners of the organization.

7. They are going to change the world

Centennials are aware of the alarming situation in the world and the global problems of our time. They actively advocate for social change and want to contribute. According to Girls With Impact, nearly two-thirds of those surveyed want to influence a cause they care about. First of all, these are the environment, human rights, poverty reduction and equality. At the same time, few people are going to become a politician to achieve their goal (only 4%). But 60% want to personally create innovations.