February 2024
Uneven work-life balance is taking its toll – especially on younger generations. Gen Z thinks that too much of their personal lives are intertwined with their work, with 90% of them checking email and other work correspondence off the clock, followed by 74% of Millennials, and 65% of Gen Xers. Finding the right career—whether in-person, remote, or hybrid—and learning when to put the phone away can be key in achieving a healthy work-life balance. (FlexJobs)
Data suggests that those in their twenties are sleeping longer and going to bed earlier compared to previous years, reflecting a shift towards healthy sleep habits and a rejection of hustle culture. With Gen Z prioritizing shut-eye over late-night socializing, businesses are adapting by offering daytime events and earlier entertainment options. (The Wall Street Journal)
In an age of tablets and keyboards, cursive handwriting is making a comeback. Five states have passed cursive instruction bills in 2024, setting up Gen Alpha with a unique skill that may have passed by much of Gen Z and been abandoned by some Millennials. Being able to read and write cursive may improve cognitive ability, refine motor skills, as well as increase legibility of signatures and historical documents. (Reuters)
Gone are the days when ‘preppy’ meant sweaters draped around polo shirts, boat shoes, and Abercrombie & Fitch– Gen Alpha defines ‘preppy’ as comfortable, “girly,” pink clothing, often featuring smiley faces or cartoons. Preppy accessories include ribbons, bowties, and Stanley brand water bottles. Companies may adjust their marketing strategies and product offerings to align with this new, self-aware ‘preppy’ trend. (Business Insider)
The demand for AI skills is outdistancing the supply of capable employees, forcing organizations to learn how to hire with AI in mind and/or create educational opportunities at work. Leaders should allow AI integration in routine tasks such as data management and creative endeavors in order to encourage familiarity among employees. (Fortune)
Employers are reluctant to lay off any workers after recent labor shortages, and at the same time, less likely to provide raises in order to sway employees to stay. Economists predict that wages and new hires will continue to slow, and layoffs will likely remain low in 2024. Managers should strive to make their employees feel valued by creating a positive and flexible work environment. (Forbes)
With intent to make extra money on gig apps, rent out their homes, and find other ways to supplement their income, Millennials are proving to be more of a side-hustle generation than any other – even more so than Gen Z. Not only can side-gigs provide financial benefit, but they can also serve as creative outlets that boost efficiency, confidence, and employability. (FastCompany)
TikTok creators are taking advantage of the relatability of workplace patterns, and videos about corporate life are going viral. With #WorkTok at 2.5 billion views and counting, users have created their own condensed versions of The Office. Poking fun at work culture can be a healthy outlet after-hours, but maybe clarify with your employees that WFH means “work from home” and not “work-free holiday.” (Worklife)