The companies that have a strategy to develop the generation of people who have never been on a team will capture an enormous advantage.
Why it Matters:
Every generation complains about the next one coming up, but Gen-Z truly is different. Raised in the most structured, protected childhood ever, they are entering the least structured workplace in history. Many of these young professionals have never been on a team. By 11 years old, 60-80% of them dropped out of team sports. Many of them shifted from in-person activities to living online, through social media and video games. They crave the opportunity to contribute to something larger than themselves but lack the prerequisite skills to effectively join a team working toward common goals. The companies that intentionally capitalize on this smart, purpose-driven cohort, by teaching them how to work together better, will capture an enormous advantage.
Big Picture:
- By 11 years old, 80% of kids stop playing team sports.
- The number of students attending online education is at an all-time high and continues to grow (effects adjusted for the pandemic).
- Millennials believed 40% of their online reputation is part of their "real lives." Gen-Z believes 70% of their online reputation is part of their real lives.
- Loneliness and isolation dominate Gen-Z; they are craving connection and purpose.
"Hope is not a plan." — Unknown
Takeaway:
The companies that teach employees how to develop team skills will have an enormous advantage over the companies that hope to hire good team contributors.
