Ep 263 - Understanding Gen Z in the Workplace

Gen Z are rapidly becoming the most influential generation in the workplace — and by 2035, they are expected to be the largest cohort in the workplace globally. Raised in a fully digital world and shaped by economic uncertainty, global crises and the COVID-19 pandemic, they bring distinct expectations around work, wellbeing and career development.

In this episode of The HR Room Podcast, Dave and Mary are joined by Dr Mary Collins, Chartered Psychologist at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, alongside Insight HR’s own Aoife Dolan, representing Gen Z in practice. Together, they explore the defining characteristics of this generation, combining academic research with lived workplace experience.

The conversation highlights how Gen Z prioritises purpose, flexibility and wellbeing over traditional career paths. From job mobility and side hustles to their expectations of leadership and workplace culture, the discussion offers valuable insights into how organisations can better attract, engage and retain this emerging workforce.

The episode also explores challenges — including rising loneliness, lower stress tolerance and the impact of social media — while emphasising the importance of intentional workplace design, multi-generational collaboration and innovative practices like reverse mentoring. Ultimately, Gen Z are not just changing the workplace — they are reshaping what work means.

Guest

• Dr Mary Collins — Chartered Psychologist, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland
• Aoife Dolan - HR Advisor, Insight HR

Topics include:

• Who Gen Z are and how they differ from previous generations
• Why Gen Z prioritise wellbeing, flexibility and purpose at work
• The rise of job mobility, portfolio careers and side hustles
• How attitudes to loyalty and career progression are evolving
• The role of loneliness, stress and social media in Gen Z’s experience
• Generational differences in confidence, communication and expectations
• The concept of reverse mentoring and cross-generational learning
• Designing workplaces that support a multi-generational workforce

Key Takeaways for HR Leaders

• Gen Z value purpose, flexibility and wellbeing more than traditional career stability.
• Loyalty is conditional — organisations must earn it through meaningful experiences.
• Mental health, loneliness and stress tolerance are critical considerations for this cohort.
• Career paths are becoming more fluid, with increased job mobility and side hustles.
• Intentional workplace design is essential to support engagement and development.
• Flexibility and autonomy are no longer perks, but expectations.
• Organisations that adapt to Gen Z’s needs will be better positioned for the future of work.

Contact Dr. Mary Collins

• Contact Dr Mary Collins on LinkedIn and @drmaryecollins on Instagram

Get in Touch with Insight HR

If you’re not already following us on LinkedIn, please do.
If you have suggestions for future episodes, or if you’d like to join us as a guest, reach out to Dave Corkery at dcorkery@insighthr.ie or connect with him on LinkedIn.

About The HR Room Podcast

The HR Room Podcast is brought to you by Insight HR — where we speak with HR leaders, experts and practitioners across Ireland about the issues shaping the world of work today.

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please share it with colleagues or friends and leave us a review.
We love to hear your feedback, we take requests, and we’re always here to support you with your HR challenges.

Immediate HR support 👉 056 770 1060 or info@insighthr.ie