Prospects of leadership style formation regarding generation Z

Abstract

The choice of the most essential criteria for potential commercial employees of Generation Z during their first employment is substantiated. It has been found that the three most essential criteria when choosing a first employer are social aspects: team spirit, work environment, and work-life balance. Differences in the criteria by gender of Generation Z were identified. The first six characteristics for female respondents were found to be related to social and safety aspects, while for male respondents, salary, career, and flexibility were among the first six. It has been established that motivational systems for representatives of Generation Z are not only external but also more related to social issues and security. This applies more to women than to men. An analysis of the differences in criteria by age group of Generation Z was conducted. A tendency was established that the younger the respondents, the more they care about relationships and security, in contrast to the «older» Generation Z, which has a more longterm and less individualistic attitude. It has been established that there are appropriate characteristics of different leadership styles for Generation Z and that a single approach to leadership may be too narrow. Elements of transactional leadership, such as clear and prompt communication, clear expectations, and transparent rules, have been found to help Generation Z feel safe. Generation Z is accustomed to rapid changes dominated by mass media. Jobs that are cross-functional, including rotations, crossdisciplinary assignments, group assignments with changing team members, etc., are exciting for Generation Z. Flexibility in leadership procedures will be positively recognized by Generation Z, rather than a style that is very structure- and processoriented. The study results show that Generation Z members are motivated and ready to work, but social and convenience factors play an essential role.