In the latest trends and insights from the world of business and culture…
Are you ready to learn about the power of global connection and how to successfully manage Gen Z in a global world?
Well get ready because today's episode is jam-packed with valuable insights and inspiration.
From the advantages of leading Gen Z’rs via global trending culture, to defying and breaking down geographical barriers between countries…
Let’s hear from Ekaterina Curry, one of the foremost experts I know in leading global Gen Z teams in the finance world.
Ekaterina is an expert in Capital Markets, a leader who elevates people and global teams. She most recently led a team of 240 Native Digitals across 22 countries, and as you’ll hear today, is more than just passionate about leading + inspiring Native Digitals – she has learned from them too. She is a first gen immigrant who came to the USA at 17, a mother of 2 native digitals who both humble and reverse mentor her.
Gen Z And the Advantageous of Trending Culture – Geographical Barriers Are Much Less Pronounced. It’s Much Easier to Lead a Global Team Now Than Even 10 Years Ago.
Today’s generation is breaking down geographical barriers.
They are not only globally connected through fashion, music, and art but also in their aspirations and learning.
And the best part? Ekaterina found this connection was also reflected in her team:
“This generation is very globally connected. They, in many ways watch the same shows. They follow the same influencers and they have so much in common in fashion and music and art, but also in what they are learning and what they're aspiring to do, and who they aspire to become...” – Ekaterina Curry
Geographical barriers were much less pronounced with this team than with others. And for her, as a Native Analog, this was a powerful and insightful learning experience.
Ekaterina takes us on a journey of stories through leading this team and the “aha” moments for her – pay special attention to how she leverages these cultural trends as an advantage instead of a barrier.
How To Use Sprints to Create Quick (and POWERFUL) Wins with Gen Z
“Learning and fun are two of the big things that I have learned keep our Gen Z colleagues engaged, and to continue accelerating and progressing in their roles.”
Learn from Ekaterina how Native Digitals, based on our experience with short-form, self-learning, is able to achieve incredible outcomes with short-burst “sprints” rather than long, drawn-out projects.
This is a MASSIVE progress accelerator that any company can use.
Ekaterina shares that by using sprints, you can help Gen Z stay focused, motivated and on track towards achieving company goals.
Lessons from Ekaterina: Specific Ways to Motivate YOUR Gen Z Team
“Motivation starts with being truly clear about the mission, vision, and strategy for the team. Now, this might sound like common sense, but this clarity, especially the translation of what it means for each team member, helped my team to create a sense of community and engagement behind the same goalposts.” – Ekaterina Curry
Second is to let humanity and authenticity lead and shine through. This cannot be faked, and it creates personal connections with the team.
Listen about how Ekaterina’s team built a community called “Culture Club,” which was all volunteers who led global engagement and fun activities—this is where the power of Fun comes in.
She also found that being fair and transparent with promotions and pay increases was key to connecting with Gen Z colleagues. She also highlighted that most companies have some work to do around understanding the expectations of Gen Z when it comes to bonuses and pay increases.
How To Structure Promotions to Engage Native Digitals
There's a big mismatch of timing expectations when it comes to promotions and title changes for native digitals.
But Ekaterina suggests a system of certifications and badges, which encourages learning and gives employees something to brag about – you’ll love this tip.
She also notes that while it may be difficult for companies to completely gamify the experience of promotions and title changes, implementing a certification and badge system allows for a more flexible and engaging approach.
This approach also aligns with the values and aspirations of Gen Z, who placed a high value on personal and professional development.
It's a way for companies to show that they are invested in their employees' growth and success, and it's a win-win for both the employees and the company.
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About Ekaterina:
Ekaterina is not just a leader in the business world, she's a leader in life. Her unique perspective as a first-gen immigrant and a mother of native digitals gives her a special insight into the needs and aspirations of the next generation. And she's using that insight to unlock the full potential of millennial and Gen Z teams in the Capital Markets space.
Ekaterina is also a first-gen immigrant who came to the USA at 17 and now a mother of 2 native digitals who keep her on her toes and humble. When she's not leading, coaching or keeping up with the market, she's getting back to nature and enjoying time with her family and her trusty companion, Flynn. Whether it's hiking in the mountains or exploring the great outdoors, Ekaterina knows how to balance work and play.
Follow her journey and be inspired by her story. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
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