WHAT IS GENERATION Z (GEN Z)?
Generation Z is the demographic born between 1997 and 2012. As they continue to finish their education and enter the workforce, it has become increasingly important to understand their values and how they think.
CHARACTERISTICS OF GEN Z
Here are some important characteristics of Gen Z:
SHORT ATTENTION SPAN
With a world full of distractions and overstimulation, the attention span for all generations is shortening. However, Gen Z has the shortest of them all, with an attention span of approximately 8 seconds.
TECH-SAVVY AND TECH-DEPENDENT
Gen Zers grew up with the internet and cell phones—and don’t know a world without them! They are very comfortable in digital spaces and rely heavily on technology.
COMPETITIVE
Growing up in a digital world where tests are taken and grades are posted online; Gen Z is used to receiving immediate feedback. This creates a competitive environment that this generation has become well-accustomed to.
ENTREPRENEURIAL AND DRIVEN
There’s a common misconception that Gen Z lacks drive; in reality, they’re redefining hustle and finding innovative and nontraditional ways to earn and succeed.
Gen Z is known for monetizing their hobbies. For example, TikTok influencers support themselves financially by doing what they love, whether it’s makeup, shopping, cooking, exercise, etc.
ADVOCATE FOR WORK-LIFE BALANCE
While previous generations often centered their lives around traditional career paths, Gen Z places a strong emphasis on work-life balance and personal fulfillment. They tend to view work as one part of a well-rounded life, rather than the defining feature of it. As a result, many in this generation are drawn to flexible work environments such as hybrid or remote setups that allow them to stay productive while maintaining a sense of autonomy and balance.
VALUE COMMUNICATION AND INTERCONNECTEDNESS
Gen Z understands the value of a network and the importance of in-person interactions. While they’re constantly connected through social media and a variety of messaging apps, they also highly value genuine, face-to-face communication. For this generation, communication isn’t just about staying in touch; it’s about authenticity, spontaneity, and real connection.
VALUE TRANSPARENCY, PURPOSE, AND AUTHENTICITY
For other generations, brand loyalty comes from the status associated with a brand name. Gen Z is very different in that their brand loyalty stems from a brand’s values, their impact, what they stand for, and how their actions support those values. Gen Z seeks out companies that share their values and can be easily influenced by those companies. For example, Gen Z tends to support cruelty-free, diverse, and sustainable brands.
15 TIPS TO ENGAGE GEN Z EVENT ATTENDEES
While Millennials currently make up the largest segment of the workforce, Gen Z is quickly gaining ground and with them comes a shift in expectations around work, communication, and culture. As more Gen Z professionals enter the workplace, they’re already influencing everything from team dynamics to corporate events, bringing fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and a strong desire for authenticity and impact.
To maximize the event experience and engagement for this up-and-coming generation, our team has put together some tips to consider when planning an event with Gen Z in mind.
1. PRIORITIZE VISUAL AND SNACKABLE CONTENT IN SESSIONS
It is no secret that Gen Z has a short attention span, so it’s important to keep sessions or speaking portions at your event short and sweet. During sessions, prioritize visual content, especially those that are easy to digest, rather than complex and lengthy slides or videos. Videos have proven to be especially effective in keeping Gen Z’s attention, so use video content in sessions when possible.
2. INTEGRATE UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
To keep Gen Z engaged, your event should stand out with fresh, unexpected experiences they can’t find anywhere else. Think beyond the typical and get creative with your venue, décor, entertainment, and speaker lineup, especially for evening or special events within a larger program. Gen Z values personalization and exclusivity, so the event should feel thoughtfully curated and one-of-a-kind. Staying on top of the latest cultural and social trends is key. If it doesn’t capture their interest, they’ll quickly turn to something that does.
3. MAKE YOUR EVENT SHAREABLE
Gen Z loves to share their life on social media, and your event should be something they want to share with their network. Create an aesthetically pleasing event setup, offer unique entertainment, utilize geotags, and provide numerous photo opportunities like branded backdrops, marquee letters, and photo booths. The more photos and videos attendees share of your event, the more engaged they are and the more interested others in their network will be in attending your event in the future.
4. OFFER PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR COLLABORATION AND NETWORKING
Gen Z values human connection and collaborating with others, so keep this in mind when choosing an event venue, building your agenda, and selecting session structures. Human connection, networking, and collaboration can be difficult through a screen, so in-person events have proven to be more effective in engaging Gen Z.
This generation does not want to sit and listen all day; they want to actively participate in the conversation. Allow optimal time for Q&A during sessions and think through ways that attendees can easily submit discussion questions to be involved and start discussions. Gen Z understands the value of a network, so create an environment with plenty of opportunities to expand them. Use an event mobile app with messaging features, choose an event venue with hubs for networking, and offer formal networking sessions or evening events like welcome receptions that provide optimal opportunities for natural networking.
If your event is virtual or hybrid, it is important to find ways to encourage one-on-one discussions through virtual networking sessions and online Q&A. Whether in-person or online, engage Gen Z attendees by allowing them to build on their connections at your event.
5. GAMIFY YOUR EVENT
One of the best ways to engage Gen Z attendees is to inspire them to get involved and actively participate in the event. Offer photo contests, engagement leaderboards on your mobile app, and scavenger hunts, either in-person or virtually, that your attendees can be involved in and win prizes. Gamifying your event, especially through digital means, will keep attendees connected and engaged throughout the event by playing off their competitive spirit.
6. SHOW HOW YOUR EVENT IS MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT
Gen Zers value purpose and are loyal to companies that are sincere in their efforts to positively impact the world around them. Gen Z is much more concerned with their impact compared to other generations. It is important to show this generation that you are thinking about the greater impact your event will have.
Integrate a giveback activity into your agenda, feature impactful topics and inspiring speakers, and implement environmental sustainability measures, such as leveraging a mobile event app to show Gen Z attendees the steps you are taking to have a positive impact.
Gen Z values sincerity and authenticity, requiring your event sustainability initiatives to genuinely reflect your company’s core values. Strengthen credibility by creating a dedicated sustainability section on your event website that clearly communicates these values and details specific environmental actions being implemented throughout the event. Why does this work? Transparent communication about your sustainability commitment not only resonates with Gen Z audiences but also builds lasting brand trust through demonstrated environmental responsibility rather than empty promises.
The more Gen Z attendees align with your values, the more engaged in the event they will be. For more tips on integrating sustainability into your next event, check out our blog “Sustainable Events: Top Tips & Ideas to Increase Sustainability at Events.”
7. ACCOUNT FOR ATTENDEE’S WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Gen Z’s prioritize work-life balance, so your event must fit into their life. Keep reasonable hours and avoid weekends, holidays, and religious observances when selecting the date or dates for your event. For multi-day events, such as conferences, ensure you build in time for experiences. Offer sightseeing tours, optional offsite activities, or suggest things to do in the host city on your event website to cater to the Gen Z work-life mindset.
8. BLEND PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL EXPERIENCES
Hybrid experiences are second nature to Gen Z. They want real-world interaction, but they also expect tech to enhance it. Integrate AR/VR experiences, QR codes for instant downloads, and digital tools like polls or live reactions into your sessions. Allow attendees to interact with digital content on their phones as part of the in-person experience. Blending the physical and digital worlds keeps Gen Z attendees immersed and engaged throughout the event.
9. BE AUTHENTIC
Gen Z can detect inauthenticity quickly—and they’ll disengage just as fast. They want to connect with real people, not just polished brand representatives. Choose speakers who share personal stories, offer behind-the-scenes content, and be transparent about your brand values. Avoid overly salesy language or forced trends. The more real and relatable your event feels, the more Gen Z will respond.
10. PRIORITIZE DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
Gen Z expects inclusivity—not as a bonus, but as a baseline. Representation matters in your speaker lineup, panel topics, entertainment, and marketing visuals. Go beyond surface-level efforts by making your event accessible to all and addressing diverse perspectives in your content. When your event reflects a broad spectrum of voices and experiences, it resonates more deeply with Gen Z attendees.
11. INCORPORATE HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES
This generation learns by doing and wants to be part of the experience, not just observing it. Create opportunities for hands-on participation through interactive workshops, DIY stations, art walls, product demos, or tech playgrounds. These hands-on activities not only keep Gen Z engaged but also create memorable experiences they’re likely to share and talk about long after the event ends.
12. PERSONALIZE THE EVENT JOURNEY
Gen Z values individuality and wants experiences tailored to their interests. Use your event app or website to allow attendees to build personalized agendas, suggest sessions based on preferences, and send push notifications with relevant content. Offer a variety of content formats—panels, lightning talks, wellness breaks—so each attendee can design their ideal experience. The more personalized the journey, the more connected Gen Z will feel to your event.
13. SUPPORT MENTAL WELLNESS AND MINDFULNESS
Mental wellness is a top priority for Gen Z. Incorporate mindfulness-focused moments into your agenda, such as stretch breaks, yoga sessions, or wellness lounges. Provide quiet spaces for attendees to recharge and offer mental health resources when appropriate. Acknowledging mental wellness demonstrates that your event respects and supports Gen Z’s holistic well-being, which strengthens their emotional connection to your brand.
14. INVITE GEN Z INTO THE CREATION PROCESS
Gen Z wants to co-create, not just consume. Give attendees a voice in shaping the event by inviting feedback before, during, and after. Allow them to vote on session topics, submit questions for speakers, or participate in live crowd-sourced discussions. Because Gen Z is highly influenced by what’s trending and by social media influencers, partnering with Gen Z influencers or content creators to co-host sessions or lead breakout groups can boost excitement and participation. Involving them in the process increases buy-in and overall engagement.
15. DESIGN FOR MOBILE-FIRST EXPERIENCES
Gen Z lives on their phones, so your event should too. Ensure your event website, app, and all digital experiences are fully mobile-optimized. Use mobile notifications to keep attendees updated in real time, provide digital check-ins, and integrate mobile-friendly maps, schedules, and interaction tools. A seamless mobile experience makes it easier for Gen Z to engage with every part of your event.
CASTLE CAN HELP YOU PLAN ENGAGING AND UNFORGETTABLE GEN Z EVENTS
As Gen Z becomes a larger part of the workforce and event audiences, it’s more important than ever to understand their values and engage them strategically at your next event.
Reach out to a member of our events team to learn more.
