Young people find it difficult to transition from digital skills to practical skills
Generation Z, made up of individuals born between 1997 and 2012, represents a significant portion of the world’s population. In Brazil this group numbers 34 million people, corresponding to 16% of the population; Globally there are 2 billion people, equal to 32% of the world population. These individuals are digital natives, born in the age of the internet, social networks and digital consumption.
However, when we look beyond the numbers, we find people with professional aspirations and ambitions for success, who face challenges related to ageist prejudice, or even youth ageism in the 21st century.
The challenges facing Generation Z are many. In Brazil, according to data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the unemployment rate for this group is 24.4%, more than double the national average (8.1%). Many of these young people have not yet had the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in the job market, facing obstacles such as a lack of professional experience, difficulties in transitioning from digital to practical skills and salary expectations that are disconnected from reality.
Considered inexperienced, these young people found themselves facing profound changes at the very beginning of their careers, especially with the advent of the global pandemic, which forced them to adopt remote working, an unprecedented development.
Meanwhile, the more experienced generations faced different challenges, learned to work without the internet, used the yellow pages and gradually adapted to emerging technologies that simplified many processes.
Work integration
For these young people to stand out in the digital world, it is essential to go through a job placement process. According to studies conducted by Gleb Tsipursky, partner of Futuro Labs in Brazil, young people’s entry into the job market requires the guidance of a mentor or sponsor.
This person will play a vital role in helping young people understand the organization and how it operates, guiding them on their professional journey by teaching them what is not found in the current yellow pages, i.e. neither on Google nor on ChatGPT.
Management plays a fundamental role for this new generation. It is essential that leaders act not only as advisors, but as educators, especially in the world of work. Parents also play an indispensable role in helping these young people take their first steps in the world of work and technology.
However, it is important to note that many parents also experience difficulties dealing with technology and not all have advanced computer skills.
Do young people need to know everything about computers?
There is an almost consensual idea that young people, because they are born in the digital age, have an obligation to master all computer systems, this is completely questionable. It’s worth mentioning that previous generations also faced similar challenges, such as learning to write and taking Excel courses. It’s time to recognize that digital learning is an ongoing journey and that support, guidance and patience are essential to these young people’s professional and personal development.
A Deloitte survey reveals that 83% of Generation Z are seeking work with purpose, striving for a world where diversity and inclusion, environmental and social sustainability, and work-life balance are tangible realities.
Adapting to these changing times is essential. There is a need to embrace a remote working culture that values ​​flexibility and autonomy, while innovative training methods, such as gamification and virtual simulations, can be effective in empowering these young people.
Specific training programs can address interpersonal skills, office tools and stimulate the entrepreneurial and innovative spirit that resides in everyone.
Investing in the development of Generation Z is not just a necessity, but a moral and economic responsibility. By promoting training, development and an inclusive and flexible work culture, we are laying the foundations for a future.
We are building a world where everyone has the opportunity to shine, remembering that we have all been apprentices at one time or another, and helping those who are entering the job market is essential for a more promising tomorrow.
Fernanda Mourão is CEO of Futuro Labs and a specialist in working models.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
