The Gen Z Filipinos’ guide to workplace success

Gen Z Filipinos may not recognize it, but they have huge potential to transform their careers. Despite what the older generation thinks, those born between 1997 and 2009 are destined for greatness!

However, as physics says, potential energy is stationary; it needs a little push to become a kinetic force for good. The question is, where should you push your innate potential?

This article will help you and other Gen Z Filipinos win at work by clearing the misconceptions regarding your generation. Then, it will proceed with the nitty-gritty of making your career “lit!”

Who are Gen Z Filipinos?

The Pew Research Center defines Generation Z as people born in 1997 onwards. However, Australian research firm McCrindle says people born from 2010 to 2024 belong to Generation Alpha.

Consequently, you can limit Gen Z to people born from 1997 to 2009. Digital marketing firm Truelogic says nearly 45 million Filipinos belong to this age group.

READ: Gen Z workers struggle with office tech

For reference, the well-renowned population counter Worldometer says the Pearl of the Orient had 115,990,557 people at the time of writing. 

Younger generations become the majority as the older generations retire and pass on. Consequently. Gen Z Filipinos will be the country’s future no matter what.

Gen Z Pinoy stereotypes debunked

Unfortunately, older generations tend to view younger ones negatively, and Gen Z Filipinos are no exception. Philippines-based outsourcing firm Penbrothers shares the following stereotypes: 

1. Gen Zs don’t want to work: Closer inspection reveals that Gen Z and Millenials strive for work-life balance. However, the former is more vocal and assertive about maintaining that equilibrium. For example, they take full-hour lunch breaks and clock out on the dot.
2. They want high rewards for little effort: Gen Z Filipinos are not afraid to ask for more than a living wage because the cost of living keeps growing. Contrary to popular belief, they only demand livable wages, which other age groups deserve, too.
3. Gen Z Pinoys are needy: This young generation only asks for flexibility, transparency, and diversity, the minimum requirements for any employee. The clamor against their demands highlights the need for employers to improve working conditions.
4. They are terrible co-workers: People born after 1997 grew up in the tech boom, so older gens assume they lack social skills. However, tech firm Atlassian’s research says playing multiplayer games helped Gen Z Filipinos develop teamwork and communication skills.
5. Gen Z doesn’t want to lead: The younger gen avoids the rat race after seeing how Millenials crashed and burned out from stress. Consequently, Gen Z Pinoys want to lead from the front lines by working alongside employees.
6. Gen Z can’t commit: The older generations say Gen Z are disloyal job-hoppers who will quit at the slightest hint of difficulty. Contrary to popular belief, they’re steadfast in their commitment to work-life balance. If their employer aligns with that goal, they will deliver results for their companies.

How can Gen Z get ‘Ws’ (wins) in the workplace?

Now that you know what Gen Z Filipinos are and are not, you can start learning how to succeed in your career. Here are some tips from The Washington Post:

1. Don’t be afraid to ask questions: Accept that you’ll struggle to communicate with colleagues and handle office protocol. Then, ask your supervisor for help or read the company’s written or online guides. 
2. Share your thoughts: Don’t be afraid to get caught “yapping” (talking). Despite what netizens say, you should express your thoughts with your co-workers. You likely have valuable ideas that can enrich you and your company.
3. Get to know people: Quit the “nonchalant” and “demure” trend and put yourself out there. Ask your co-workers to eat lunch together and listen to them talk about themselves. Just don’t overshare to avoid being “ohio” (creepy).
4. Go the extra mile: Work-life balance is important, but ensure you’re doing your best while at work. That means doing extra work, volunteering for extra activities, and exerting effort to “stand out” in your workforce. Also, the extra mile requires “extra” time management skills so that you can maintain the balance.
5. Reach out for help: Remember that your friends and family are there to support you. If all else fails, play to your strengths by checking online resources like Google. You might even find helpful tips on TikTok!

Bonus: Take advantage of artificial intelligence. Start by checking your company’s AI rules. Find out the tools and methods allowed, and then see how you can apply them to your role.

READ: Achieve work-life balance with Logitech

For example, use Shutterstock AI to generate eye-catching, unique visuals for your marketing presentation. Of course, AI-generated content should only inspire your original ideas, not replace them. 

Your bosses won’t like it if they find out that you’re lowkey (secretly) using AI for all your outputs. 

Conclusion

Expect the modern workforce to mix artificial intelligence and human creativity. Gen Z Filipinos must know how to use the latter at work using the steps above. 

Younger generations should also learn how to leverage the latest technologies. Your gadgets aren’t just for wacky dances and split videos.

With the right techniques, you can have AI skyrocketing your career to greater heights. See what you can do with artificial intelligence at Inquirer Tech.