As Gen Z joins the fitness industry workforce, their distinctive approach to work-life balance and wellness is influencing workplace dynamics.
According to Qureos, an employment recruitment platform, Gen Z represents 30% of the global population and is projected to account for 27% of the workforce by 2025.
This shift highlights the importance for fitness facility owners and managers to develop environments that not only draw in but also keep this emerging talent.
So today I want to share some strategies for fitness and wellness professionals to support Gen Z employees effectively and cultivate cohesive teams.
Acknowledging Gen Z’s Workforce Expectations
The latest entrants into the workforce are looking for more than just jobs—they desire environments that prioritise their well-being and respect their personal boundaries.
Very often, Gen Z faces overwhelming workloads, with many balancing multiple jobs to make a living. Moreover, they seek clarity in their roles and place a high value on flexibility.
This is particularly relevant given that 72% of Gen Z workers have considered leaving or have left a job due to inadequate flexible work policies. Additionally, their constant engagement with social media presents unique challenges that significantly impact their mental health and workplace expectations.
It was observed that Gen Z is frequently burdened by heavy workloads with many taking on multiple jobs to sustain themselves. As a result, they look for clarity in their roles and appreciate flexibility in the workplace.
In the fitness industry, while wellness is a known priority, it can sometimes be overlooked. Implementing a thoughtful wellness program can make Gen Z feel integral to the team.
Creating Robust Wellness Program
Gym owners need to recognize the importance of connection in any successful wellness program
“Building connections within the workplace is essential—not just interpersonal but also aligning the company’s mission with its daily operations,” she explains.
For gym owners, this means ensuring that the facility’s holistic wellness values are both communicated clearly and put into practice.
Advocating for holistic wellness, means you are able to distinguish between mental health days and sick days in your policy.
It’s easy to focus on physical activity and nutrition, the “top two” wellness goals. However, we should be able to consider the full spectrum of wellness, which includes understanding the broader significance of physical activities.
Here are some practical tips that will help you support your Gen Z staff:
- Maintain clear communication: Define job roles and expectations from the beginning to avoid misunderstandings. Ensure all team members understand their responsibilities and the available flexibility.
- Set healthy boundaries: Show your staff that prioritizing personal well-being is acceptable by taking long weekends or regular breaks yourself. This sets a positive example and demonstrates that their happiness is a priority.
- Consider the impact of technology: Recognise the significant role of technology and social media in Gen Z’s lives and encourage staff to un-plug for a ½ a day each week. Arrange real-life social interactions between staff over lunch, a game of soccer or offer support for managing the stress of constant digital connectivity.
- Schedule regular check-ins: Hold short sharp weekly meetings with staff to get their input on key projects and help them feel connected. This is crucial for adapting programs and individual responsibilities to better meet their needs.
Evaluating Success
Team work is crucial in assessing the success of a gyms ‘wellness program’ with the aim of retaining top talent.
The questions I like to consider are
- Do staff have enough hours and income, so they can stop worrying about money?
- What are each trainers goals this year around fitness, education, travel and finance?
- Do any staff look tied or unmotivated?
- When was the last guest speaker or team social event to help fill their bucket?
- When is the next performance review scheduled to give feedback, clarify roles and allow opportunity for promotion?
- When is the next group interview, to ensure a constant flow of talent
Indicators such as reduced turnover and fewer absences signify progress. When Gen Z staff remain and actively contribute, positive outcomes follow, which is critical in the high-turnover fitness industry.
If you create an environment where being a trainer at your gym is considered a privilege, it’s a sign you’re doing something right. Work hard to achieve a reputation as a desirable workplace.
