As we navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the conversation around hybrid work models has taken center stage. For Gen Z, the youngest group in the workforce, this discussion holds particular significance. In this blog post, we'll discuss three key considerations when examining hybrid work: the prevalence of loneliness among Gen Z, the desire for autonomy and connection, and the implications for mental health and productivity.
Loneliness Epidemic Among Gen Z
According to Forbes, “Loneliness is a growing epidemic in most developed countries. Young people aged 16 to 24 feel more lonely than any other age group, including people aged 65 and over. 73% of Gen-Z report feeling alone sometimes or always. Loneliness can be as damaging to health as smoking 15 cigarettes per day. And people who experience social isolation have a 32% higher risk of early death.”
Despite being the most connected generation technologically, Gen Z often grapples with feelings of isolation, exacerbated by remote work arrangements. Many Gen Z professionals find themselves still working from their childhood bedrooms, or alone in their apartments wishing they had the camaraderie and social interaction of an office environment.
Balancing Autonomy and Connection
Gen Z is a generation that wants to prioritize their mental health and they need connection more than any generation.
Gen Z values autonomy and flexibility in their work arrangements but also craves human connection. While remote work offers the freedom to structure one's day, it can also lead to feelings of disconnection and isolation, especially for those early in their careers. The desire to collaborate, seek mentorship, and engage in spontaneous interactions underscores the importance of maintaining aspects of in-person work.
Mental Health and Productivity Considerations
Research by Monster reveals that “69% of remote employees are experiencing burnout.”
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According to Harvard and Stanford research, “The average business can save up to $11,000 per year just by switching to a hybrid model.”
The shift to remote work has highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being. The alarming rate of burnout among remote employees underscores the need for a balanced approach to work arrangements. While hybrid models offer potential cost savings, they also provide opportunities for in-person collaboration, which can boost morale and productivity. Striking a balance between remote and in-person work is crucial for maintaining employee satisfaction and well-being.
Navigating the Future of Work
As we consider the future of work, it's essential to involve employees in the decision-making process. Surveys and open dialogue can provide valuable insights into the preferences and needs of Gen Z workers. A hybrid model that combines the flexibility of remote work with opportunities for in-person collaboration may offer the best of both worlds.
In conclusion, the debate over returning to the office is complex, with implications for mental health, productivity, and organizational culture. By prioritizing autonomy, connection, and well-being, companies can create hybrid work environments that meet the diverse needs of their employees and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Transforming Organizational Culture with FeelSwell Experiences
At FeelSwell Experiences, we specialize in guiding organizations through transformative cultural shifts, preparing them for the future of work and the needs of upcoming generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials. Our comprehensive suite of services is designed to prioritize well-being, foster human connection, and develop leaders equipped for success in the modern workplace.
How We Can Help:
- Tailored Consulting: Our consulting services are tailored to each organization's unique needs, guiding them through the process of cultural transformation with strategic insights and actionable plans.
- Training Programs: We offer a range of experiential training programs designed to equip managers with essential leadership skills. From sustainable leadership principles to mindfulness techniques and team collaboration strategies, our programs cover a diverse array of topics essential for effective leadership in the 21st century.
- Implementation Support: Our support doesn't end with training. We provide ongoing guidance and resources to ensure that the cultural changes initiated are successfully implemented and sustained over time.
- Personalized Coaching: For individuals looking to enhance their leadership capabilities, we offer personalized coaching sessions focused on developing emotional intelligence and fostering authentic leadership.
Why Choose Us:
- Gen Z and Millennial Perspective: With a deep understanding of the unique needs and preferences of Gen Z in the workplace, we bring a fresh perspective to organizational culture transformation.
- Holistic Approach: We go beyond surface-level changes, emphasizing the importance of well-being and human connection in fostering a thriving workplace culture.
- Experiential Learning: Our hands-on, experiential learning approach ensures that participants not only understand the principles but also internalize them, driving meaningful and lasting change.
- Proven Results: With a track record of success in transforming organizational cultures and developing effective leaders, we have the expertise and experience to deliver tangible results.
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Ready to embark on a journey of cultural transformation and leadership development with FeelSwell Experiences? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help your organization thrive in the future of work.
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About the Author: Keely - Catalyst for Change
Keely is a renowned somatic therapist, mental health advocate, and a sought-after expert in sustainable success through mindset, wellness, relationships, and impact. She has had the privilege of working with thousands of diverse professionals, leaders, business owners, conferences, organizations, and colleges globally as they pursue success while incorporating mental well-being into their lives.
Having departed from a corporate role as a Gen Z employee, Keely brings a unique perspective to the challenges faced by highly driven individuals in the professional realm. With appearances on the TODAY show, numerous podcasts, and media outlets, she provides an "insider's edge" into the distinctive intersection of success and well-being.
Keely's insights not only enhance the overall well-being of her clients but also drive transformative change within organizations. Currently residing in San Diego, California, she shares her life and business journey with her partner, Dani, and their dachshund, Max. Join Keely as she shares valuable insights on navigating the evolving landscape of well-being in the corporate world.