Gen Alpha Years: The Future of Work.
Remote work has become increasingly popular due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is expected to continue even after the pandemic ends. With Generation Alpha, or those born between 2010 and 2025, growing up with access to technology and the internet, it is important to consider the implications of remote work on this generation.
Flexibility
One potential benefit of remote work for Gen Alpha is the flexibility it provides. With the ability to work from anywhere with an internet connection, parents may have more opportunities to work from home and spend more time with their children.
This can also allow for a better work-life balance and the opportunity to attend important events or appointments without having to take time off.
Technology
As mentioned earlier, Gen Alpha is growing up with access to technology and the internet. Remote work can provide an opportunity to further develop their digital skills and increase their comfort level with technology.
However, it is important to ensure that remote work does not lead to overreliance on technology and the exclusion of in-person social interactions.
Check out this Youtube video about “Gen Alpha years” to learn about the future generation that will soon enter the workforce and how they will impact our society:
The Digital Natives
Generation Alpha, or Gen Alpha, refers to the newest generation of individuals born between 2010 and 2025. What sets this generation apart is that they have grown up in a fully digitized world where technology is an integral part of daily life.
As such, they are often referred to as “digital natives.”
The Great Screen-age
Technology undoubtedly shapes the daily lives and routines of Gen Alpha. From portable devices, smart toys, voice-activated assistants, and digital media, technology has become an integral part of their lives.
According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the average child spends about seven hours a day on screens between the ages of eight and 18.
The Benefits of Hiring Generation Alpha for Remote Work
With the rise of remote work, Gen Alpha’s digital literacy has become an asset. These individuals have grown up in a digital world and have an innate understanding of technology.
As such, they can quickly adapt to new digital tools and are often more tech-savvy than their older counterparts. Additionally, as the age group is still young, they have not developed significant biases or preferences for specific software or hardware, making them more versatile in using different platforms.
Challenges in Remote Work for Generation Alpha
The upcoming generation, known as Gen Alpha, faces unique challenges in the remote work setting. From difficulties with remote learning to potential negative consequences of too much technology, it’s important to understand the various struggles and limitations they may face.
Remote Learning
Remote learning, a necessity during the pandemic, may affect early childhood development and education. Because Gen Alpha grew up in a digital world and have not experienced in-person learning, they may struggle with socialization and communication skills.
In addition, online learning can be isolating and limit opportunities for physical activity, which can impact physical and mental health.
Digital Overload
As a fully digital generation, Gen Alpha may be too reliant on technology, leading to potential negative consequences like digital overload. With constant access to screens, they may experience visual strain, and exposure to harmful content online.
Lack of face-to-face communication and physical interaction could also hinder their ability to establish healthy relationships and develop emotional intelligence.
The Future of Work with Generation Alpha in Mind
Generation Alpha will be the first fully digital generation, having grown up in a world with advanced technology. As they enter the workforce, companies and organizations will need to adapt to suit their needs and characteristics.
Childcare and Family-friendly policies
Working parents in Gen Alpha years will need support from their employers to manage their responsibilities at work and home. Companies and organizations can provide family-friendly policies, such as flexible working hours and paid parental leave.
Additionally, they can offer tools and resources to help working parents manage childcare, such as subsidies or on-site childcare facilities.
Virtual Communication Technologies
Virtual communication technologies will become increasingly important in the future of work with Gen Alpha workers. They are already proficient in using technology and rely on it for communication and collaboration.
Employers can utilize emerging technologies such as virtual meeting platforms, online project management systems, and collaborative tools to connect and work with Gen Alpha workers.
Introduction
Generation Alpha, also known as Gen Alpha, is a generation of people born between the years 2010 and 2025. This generation is unique as they are the first to grow up in a fully digital world, with their birth coinciding with the launch of the first iPad by Apple.
Growing up during a pandemic, recession, mental health epidemic, remote work experiment, and technological revolution will define their lives.
Challenges of Employing Generation Alpha Workers
One of the challenges of employing Generation Alpha workers will be their lack of experience with manual labor. A large number of entry-level jobs are physically demanding, and an increasing number of Gen Alpha workers are lacking basic physical fitness.
Consequently, employers need to be creative in finding employment opportunities suitable for their abilities, interests, and skills.
Redefining Education
Gen Alpha will be the most educated generation but will redefine what a “real education” resembles. They will prioritize skills over academic degrees.
This skill-based educational approach will open up opportunities for self-paced learning, allowing them to tailor their education to their interests and skills.
References
- The Guardian: “Generation Alpha are not the gender stereotypes parents may assume”
- Business Insider: “Meet Generation Alpha, the 10-year-old and younger kids who are already influencing spending and forcing marketers to think differently”