Generation Z’s participation in the corporate world is now increasingly dominant and a concern for many companies. This youngest generation in the workforce has great potential to improve the performance of each organization. However, according to Unilever Indonesia’s Human Resources Director, Willy Saelan, the phenomenon of intergenerational misunderstanding often traps companies in negative labels, thus failing to recognize the potential of the new generation.
“In my 30 years with Unilever, I’ve realized that at one time, everyone was ‘Generation Z,'” said Willy while opening a seminar session entitled “The Power of Gen Z: Distinctive Strength: Future Leaders” as part of the Human Capital Management Talks 2nd Series held by the SBM ITB in Bandung (August 27). The seminar was moderated by Dr. Ir. Yuni Ros Bangun.
Willy encouraged the audience to recognize the new potential that each generation holds. He noted that new generations are often perceived as lazy at first. The stigma surrounding Gen Z, characterized as spoiled and demanding, should be reframed to acknowledge that they are a generation that dares to ask questions, seeks meaningful experiences, is focused on making an impact, and prioritizes personal growth.
Unilever is implementing several strategies to optimize the potential of Gen Z, according to Willy. These strategies include instilling values and purpose, encouraging performance, expanding responsibilities, building emotional resilience, and maintaining physical well-being.
“Empowerment is a key principle for us,” Willy said. “We always provide interns with opportunities to work on real projects and give them responsibilities that match their compensation.”
As a result, for the past seven years, Unilever Indonesia has consistently ranked in the top three in Unilever’s global performance, competing with more than 15 other countries. Willy emphasized that this achievement proves the importance of a paradigm shift for companies: from simply labeling to truly recognizing potential.
Willy believes that the key to engaging Generation Z in a sustainable way is to provide them with meaningful work. He asserts that every manager should have the ability to positively influence their team members by instilling clear values, character, and goals. This approach helps team members develop into effective leaders.
Willy emphasized the importance of an “unlearn and relearn” attitude. He believes that the ever-changing world, from digitalization to intergenerational shifts, demands that every individual and company be adaptive. With the ability to relearn and adapt, organizations will more easily navigate change and remain relevant in the future.
