You’ve likely heard that Gen Z is the first generation of true digital natives. They might be attending a virtual meeting on their laptop, checking for updates on their phone and managing a project on a tablet — simultaneously.

But beyond their tech skills, what sets them apart is their strong commitment to company values such as diversity, inclusion, fairness and transparency. And they expect their workplaces to embody these values in all aspects.

By understanding Gen Z’s unique preferences, companies can gain valuable insights to enhance training programs for all generations. Let’s explore how.

Key Ways Gen Z Is Influencing Training

Gen Z’s unique views and expectations are reshaping workplace training in the following ways:

Self-directed learning. Recent research by TalentLMS and Workable shows that Gen Z spends more of their personal time on upskilling and reskilling compared to other generations. In fact, 29% do their training outside working hours. Unlike previous generations that preferred structured training, Gen Z likes to learn on their own terms. This leads companies to offer more self-directed learning options, such as asynchronous online training. LinkedIn data further highlights this trend, showing that Gen Z watches over 50% more hours of online courses than other generations.

Engagement and interactivity. Long gone are the days of lengthy lectures with minimal interaction. To inspire and engage Gen Z, you need to lean into virtual reality and gamification for meaningful results.

Alignment with personal values. Gen Z employees expect their learning to reflect their personal values, especially in terms of diversity, equity and inclusion. In fact, 77% find it important to work for a company that not only cares about these values but acts upon them in a meaningful way.

Drawing Lessons from Gen Z for Better Training

By learning from Gen Z’s preferences, organizations can create training programs that engage all employees. Here’s how to use the above insights and make training better for everyone:

Use advanced technology. According to new TalentLMS research, 52% of Gen Z prioritize digital skills in the AI era. Turns out, employers need to embrace Gen Z’s tech-savviness by integrating technology into workplace training. This can include virtual reality experiences, AI-driven personalized learning paths and interactive SaaS LMSs. For example, an AI-powered training platform can analyze an employee’s progress and adapt the learning content to focus on areas where they need more support.

Develop bite-sized content. Offer quick, digestible learning experiences to boost engagement and enhance knowledge retention. Short training courses help employees absorb information more effectively. For example, new hires who may be overwhelmed by an overload of information could benefit from a series of bite-sized modules on navigating company software and workplace policies. This will get them up to speed faster and without stress.

Incorporate collaborative learning environments. Ideal for Gen Z, such settings can also benefit learners of all ages. Setting up internal discussion forums or group chats boosts teamwork and allows employees to share insights and learn from each other.

Align training with corporate values. Ensure your training programs reflect key company values. For example, you can:​​​​​

• Incorporate sessions on environmental sustainability
• Invite a DE&I influencer for an engaging workshop
• Offer training on ethical decision-making with real-life scenarios
• Organize team-building activities that support local community causes

Elevating Training Standards for All

Let’s face it: If your training isn’t evolving to meet Gen Z’s needs, you’re falling behind. Their tech-savviness, love for quick, interactive lessons, and focus on corporate values aren’t just passing fads — they’re essential for raising the bar for training across all generations.

Gen Z’s approach to learning — emphasizing technology, flexibility and values — provides a blueprint for creating effective training programs. By adopting these strategies, companies can develop training that keeps everyone engaged, motivated and aligned with the company’s goals.