033: From Transactions to Purpose: How to Ignite Gen Z's Ambition

About this episode

This episode explores strategies to ignite Gen Z's ambition in the workplace.

In this episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore explore practical strategies for awakening ambition and incentivizing Gen Z in the workplace. They unpack the evolving motivations of Gen Z, including the significant influence of social media and shifting definitions of success, and share stories that illustrate how young professionals respond to purpose and autonomy. Discover why traditional reward systems fall flat, the importance of skill development, mentorship, and visibility, as well as actionable strategies for you to personalize motivation, communicate clear career paths, and sustain ambition through meaningful systems. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z

People in this episode

Hosts: Susan Davis, Dr. Tim Elmore

Topics covered

• Gen Z motivation
• workplace strategies
• skill development
• mentorship
• career paths

Keywords

• Gen Z
• ambition
• workplace
• motivation
• social media
• success
• mentorship

Mentioned in this episode

Products: The Future Begins With Z

Places: Gen Z

More episodes of Generations at Work

• 034: HR & the Emerging Workforce feat. SHRM CEO Johnny C. Taylor Jr. · May 5, 2026 · 45 min
• 032: Inside the Mind of a Gen Z Professional · April 7, 2026 · 33 min
• 031: Navigating Gen Z's High Expectations in Today's Workforce · March 24, 2026 · 32 min
• 030: Rethinking Productivity: Burnout, Wellbeing, and Generational Shifts on the Job · March 10, 2026 · 26 min
• 029: Practical Ways to Cultivate a Workplace Culture of Belonging · February 24, 2026 · 36 min
• 028: Creating an Irresistible Workplace: How to Retain Top Talent from Every Generation · February 10, 2026 · 28 min