What does Gen Z want?

Gen Z (Generation Z) refers to the demographic cohort born after Millennials and before Generation Alpha (Gen A), typically between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. There is lots of discussion happening as to what does Gen Z want?

The Style of Communication of Gen Z may be considered as mostly expressive. Gen Z wants bragging rights as opposed to traditional school of humility. The significance of bragging lies in its role as a complex self-presentation tactic that may stem from insecurity, a desire for validation, or even a genuine attempt to establish a favourable image they desire in their heads. When done in moderation, it can satisfy the need for external validation and boost perceived competence. They want to speak their minds with courage, devoid of restrictions. Any restriction is interpreted as an infringement of freedom of personal expression. They want to explore ways to earn fame. They are also highly reactive online.

Gen Z's socialization traits may be defined by their status as "digital natives," who are fluent in technology and social media. They belong to an era when the screen has become vertical from being horizontal. They are highly eager to connect with others but at their own convenience and at their own will. They were born with screens in their hands listening to bedtime rhymes, music, stories and audio books. The attention span is always in question. Gen Z has the attention span available for the gaming activity. Gaming is engaging. They watch reels and do a lot of scrolling. They are not eager on playing physical games. They feel the physical infrastructure to play in the open is less accessible to all. Even if there are facilities available, one has to pay a certain amount to play in a decent place in urban areas.

The curiosity of Gen Z towards political issues is impassive unless it concerns them directly. For many of them politics is a word in their heads that stands for highly complex forces at play. Hence their opinion about politics is divided.  They may undermine the role of religion in politics. Caste is something highly personal that they wish to talk only when really needed.

They want everything from transportation to government works to bank transactions to be seamless. Everything has to be hassle-free. The access to public and common places has to be smooth. The number of steps involved in reaching out to anything has to be minimum. Governments have to make laws and policies attuning to their needs. Obviously, they are against “nepo babies” anywhere in politics, entertainment and prominent places. They don’t tolerate “corruption” in government and administration. They want government to provide enabling environment for jobs both in government and outside. They want government to take up skilling, capacity building for their generation. They don’t want to be at the mercy of the Government, yet they look up to the Government for all support and guidance.

They want money in their hands rather than savings that may be helpful later. The inclination for immovable properties is less.  Many Gen Z prefer to align with brands and organizations that share their values.

They want more understanding of their relationships. Some may believe in more casual relationships. It is common for the Gen Z to be on multiple dating apps like bumble, tinder etc. They enjoy this dating through apps. They feel that they are highly misunderstood. They want the other generations to be compassionate to their ideas.

11 October 2025