Generation Z is made up of folks born between the mid-90s and early 2010s. They're now entering the workforce, brimming with hopes, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas. It's a real shame that so many of them are facing contract terminations sooner than expected. It's a concern for both employees and employers, especially when you consider the potential of this generation. While around 20.27% of Gen Z in Indonesia Young Age (15-24 years) Who Are Not Schooling, Working or Attending Training in 2023 around 4,303,938 Gen Z in Indonesia is Unemployed Labor Force Age 15-24 Years Out of the Total Gen Z Population of 44,495,300 people Hence, this raises questions on why Gen Z faces numerous contract terminations and how these contract terminations can be avoided. Before we dive into how to avoid contract termination, let's take a quick break to chat about why they face contract termination in the first place.
1.Lack of Commitment and Professionalism
One significant issue facing Gen Z in the workplace is a perceived lack of commitment to their roles and a tendency to not act professionally. Some Gen Z workers may approach jobs with a “temporary” mindset, viewing them as stepping stones rather than long-term career opportunities. This can manifest in poor work ethic, lack of punctuality, or a lack of accountability for their tasks. Employers value consistency, dedication, and a professional attitude, and when these qualities are absent, it can lead to early terminations.
2.High Expectations vs. Traditional Workplaces
It's totally understandable that many Gen Z workers have high expectations for job flexibility, work-life balance, and company values that align with their own. However some companies still have a more traditional approach to work, with a focus on getting things done and results.
3.Lack of Practical Skills
Gen Z is often seen as smart, but some companies have noticed that they sometimes lack practical skills. It's so important to get that all-important hands-on experience, but sadly, education can focus a lot on theory, leaving less room for that. This can make it a bit challenging for Gen Z to adapt in the workplace.
4.Mismatched Company Culture
It can be tough for Gen Z to fit into a more traditional company culture, which often has a more formal and hierarchical structure. This cultural mismatch can sometimes lead to discomfort for both Gen Z employees and the company, which can unfortunately result in contract termination.
5.Unrealistic Expectations for Rapid Success
Many Gen Z workers are eager to make their mark right away, but they may not have a clear plan for how to reach their goals long-term. If the expected results aren't met, companies may feel the need to make some adjustments to their workforce, especially if the role directly impacts productivity.To maintain the contract, we must ensure a lower chance of termination. Therefore, according to our findings, here are some tips for Gen Z to avoid or mitigate the chance to be terminated.
6.Develop Soft Skills
It's not just about the technical skills. Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are just as important and can really add value. Make the most of workshops, webinars, or soft skills courses, and practice these skills regularly, even outside of work.
7.Be Open to Feedback
Being open to feedback is key to growth in the workplace. It's how you learn and improve. Gen Z workers should see constructive criticism as a chance to learn and adapt, not as a threat. Being open to feedback is a great way for them to improve and show that they're committed to growth.
8.Build Mental Resilience
It's important to build mental resilience in the workplace, where we often face unexpected challenges and pressures. If Gen Z can see that failure is just another step on the learning journey, it'll help them become more resilient. Make sure you take some time to rest, reflect, and create a long-term plan to achieve your goals in small steps. This will help you to thrive in the complex workplace environment.
9.Show Dedication and Work Ethic
Show your dedication and work ethic. Stay loyal to your work, even when tasks feel tough or are not what you expected. It's good to show your company that you're dedicated and willing to stick with things until you get them done. Do your best on each task and look for ways to contribute to your team. For companies, creating an inclusive and open workplace for Gen Z can help them to grow alongside the organization. For Gen Z, understanding the challenges and demands of the workplace while continuously learning and adapting is the key to success. If you're committed to your work, you'll be less likely to get fired.
Reference
BPS-Statistics Indonesia Bandung Regency. (July 30, 2024). Gen Z phenomenon is difficult to find a job Retrieved on November 13, 2024, from https://bandungkab.bps.go.id/en/news/2024/07/30/75/gen-z-phenomenon-is-difficult-to-find-a-job-.html
