Born between 1997 to 2012, Gen Z is set to make up 27% of the workforce by next year.
But what does this mean for leadership today?
Well, Gen Z is bringing a whole new vibe to the workplace with fresh expectations for their leaders. They’re looking for more than just a figurehead. They want leaders who are real, tech-savvy, and genuinely care about their personal and professional growth.
So, in today’s episode, we’re going to break down exactly what Gen Z wants from their leaders. And to help us in doing that, we have the amazing Meenalochani Kumar with us. A neuroscience-based HR practitioner and a visionary Talent Management & Development Leader known for her impact on several renowned organizations.
Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia
Guest Bio
Meenalochani is a neuroscience-based HR practitioner. She believes in the inter-connectedness of life and focuses on inter-disciplinary learning to build expertise. Having been a cancer survivor twice, she views life as a lovely, big opportunity to live well. She likes to bring a positive frame of mind to the workplace. She trusts the goodness of humankind and strives continuously to build lasting human relationships in this digital, virtual world.
Her expertise lies in Executive Learning, Leadership Development and Coaching, Talent Management, Organizational Effectiveness, Career Architecture, and Culture. She uses Systems Thinking and Transactional Analysis to connect the dots while driving change and shifting mindsets needed for organizational transformation. Working with industry thought leaders during her professional career has shaped and redefined her thinking prowess and curiosity for deep understanding. A few organizations she has been part of and has provided thought leadership to include Northern Trust Corporation (a Fortune 500 company), Sutherland, Mahindra's, Cummins, and Mindtree in various internal consulting capacities. Her nuances of understanding people, processes, structure, and organizational dynamics have helped her lead with a balance of intellect and self-awareness.
Connect with Meenalochani on Linkedin
Timestamps
(02:00) Meenalochani provides a snapshot of her career highlights so far.
(03:36) Sanjeevani and Meenalochani kick off with a discussion on the key leadership qualities that Gen Z employees prioritize.
(11:15) They dive into the importance of authenticity for Gen Z in leadership.
(14:38) The conversation shifts to how Gen Z employees expect leaders to innovate in supporting their career development and personal growth.
(25:09) She discusses strategies for leaders to meet Gen Z’s high expectations for diversity and inclusion.
(27:53) They discuss how Gen Z's demands for work-life balance and mental health support are reshaping traditional views of leadership responsibilities.
(36:20) The episode wraps up with a look at the most impactful communication styles and methods for engaging with Gen Z.
