"We didn't raise robots": Study shows what really makes Generation Z tick
Attitude towards automation is positive
The attitude of Generation Z towards automation is overwhelmingly positive. For example, 80% of those surveyed believe that automation creates a fairer working world, as it is free of prejudice and discrimination. Generation Z is not afraid of robots; on the contrary, it is convinced that we are heading towards a partnership between humans and machines.51% believe that humans and machines will work hand in hand as integrated teams in the future. A further 38% see machines as helpful tools for people that are used when they are needed. Only 11% are pessimistic and fear that machines could replace human workers.
Less naive than expected
Generation Z is often said to be naive and careless when it comes to handling personal data. The study by Dell Technologies shows that this is not true across the board. After all, 73% of the pupils and students surveyed see data protection as a top priority. Most of them exercise caution, especially with career entry in mind. When posting on social media, 72% are always careful not to publish anything that could damage their professional career. A further 23% try to do this at all times, but admit that they do not always succeed.
Technically adept, unsure in other areas
As confident as members of Generation Z are about their technological skills, they are often unsure about their other skills. 73% rate their technology skills as good to excellent and 68% believe they have programming skills that are usable to excellent. Nevertheless, almost all respondents (over 90%) have reservations about starting a career. Only around half (57%) believe that their education has prepared them well to excellently for their future career. 52% believe that although they have the necessary technological skills that their employers expect, they do not necessarily have the necessary soft skills.
Human interaction remains important
Despite their affinity for technology, human interaction plays an important role for Generation Z in the workplace. When asked about their preferred method of communication with colleagues, the relative majority (43%) said face-to-face meetings. Over half (53%) prefer to be at work in person rather than working from home; and 58% prefer to work as part of a team rather than as a lone wolf. Generation Z's great affinity for human interaction is also reflected in the fact that 77% of respondents are willing to support older colleagues who find it more difficult to deal with modern technologies. "We didn't raise robots. Despite their affinity for technology and healthy self-confidence in their technological skills, Generation Z is also aware of uncertainties and attaches great importance to human interaction," says Achim Freyer, General Manager Commercial at Dell EMC Switzerland. "With their optimistic view of the future, their strong sense of justice and, above all, their technological skills, Generation Z can make an important contribution to digitalization and open the door wide for fruitful collaboration between generations in the company," adds Frank Thonüs, General Manager Enterprise at Dell EMC Switzerland.For the study, Dimensional Research conducted an online survey in 17 countries in August and September 2018 on behalf of Dell Technologies. The questions were offered in 12 languages and answered by more than 12,000 students. The complete results of the global study are can be found here.
