What makes Gen Z different from other generations in the workplace? How can an organization help all generations work their best? And what can senior leaders do to foster trust in a multi-generational workplace? In this episode of the On Aon podcast, Helen Payne and Anna Hislop discuss generational dynamics in the workforce. 

Experts in this episode: 

Helen Payne, Global Director of Human Sustainability, Aon

Anna Hislop, Leadership Coach and Author, You Only Have to Ask, How to Realize the Full Potential of Gen Z at Work

Key Moments: 

[1:37] What makes Gen Z different from other generations in the workforce

[3:36] How senior leaders can build trust in the workplace

[7:19] Other generations in the workforce

[9:06] Examples of companies fostering high-performance across generations

Additional Resources:

2025 Employee Sentiment Study

Anna Hislop, Leadership Coach

You Only Have to Ask, How to Realize the Full Potential of Gen Z at Work

Soundbites: 

“Understanding and appreciating what all generations bring to the workplace is key to have a thriving team or a thriving company.” Anna Hislop

“This generation (Gen Z) was shaped by quite an unstable world during their formative years. We had the economic instability during the Great Recession and what that did to their parents and other adults in their life. This is when conversations were had around the table of, I don't want to be just a number or I've dedicated so much time and so many years to this company and now I'm being laid off. There's no loyalty there to be had. So this is what shaped the younger employees and they're really working hard not to make the same mistakes as their older siblings or parents did.” — Anna Hislop

“They're looking for a caring leader and they're looking for a leader who will give them clarity and direction. And they will work hard if they feel that they have the support, they know who cares about them and they know what they are expecting to achieve and do in their role.” — Anna Hislop