From The Publisher
As I watch them grow, it is exciting to see the world through their eyes, as they literally see a world without boundaries.
My 15-year-old daughter, Hope, uses apps like Poshmark, Depop and Mercari to buy and sell clothes. She buys items locally and online at a low price and sells them for profit all over the world. Just last week, she bought shoes from a person in Hawaii, sold a shirt to a person in Texas, and purchased a dress from China.
But it doesn’t stop with buying and selling; she is learning marketing skills and the value of customer service. It is commonplace for packages to come with a personal message from the seller, a small gift or even a small branded item that showcases the seller’s personality. She is also experiencing the power of a consumer review and the importance of taking care of your customer. Sellers are rated on every transaction—if what you say you are sending doesn’t match what is received—watch out! Reviews are a lesson in integrity, business ethics and customer satisfaction.
And then there is the empowered inspiration—not only does Gen Z become inspired by the things they see on their phones and tablets, but they also have access to learn the secrets to turn that inspiration into reality. By buying and selling online, Hope has encountered people designing their own brands. She has taken that inspiration, and by watching YouTube videos, she has learned more about fashion design, sewing, and the tools she needs to design her own line of clothes. Hope is now moving from “what if ” to “how can I.” She is seeking out people to teach her the skills she needs—like her grandma teaching her how to use the sewing machine.
Generation Z has skills, knowledge and a perception of the world that can be incredibly powerful to business. But they also need us to mentor them, give them the tools to enhance their efforts, guide their knowledge and listen—together we will move our businesses from good to great.
As you read about the three Gen Z entrepreneurs in this issue of TK, I hope it inspires you and serves as a catalyst for your own dreams.
