At Tribe, we’re interested in how different generations interact in the workforce. We’re currently conducting follow-up research on how the recession has affected the different generations, so look for that to be released soon. Additionally, we’re conducting research on Gen Z, the generation born roughly between 1995 and 2009. As their future employers, we have a head start knowing some of the drivers that have shaped their lives into the people and workers they will become. Gen Z is just now starting to enter the workforce, primarily in the retail and restaurant industries. Here are a few key traits to look for in this group:

• They’ve grown up with technology. Perhaps the most important thing to point out about this generation is that they are truly the first generation to not know what life is like without technology. They were born into the age of the Internet, cell phones, Facebook and TiVo, so technology provides the background for a lot of their predominant characteristics. Expect this group to adapt very quickly to new tools and technologies at work, although they may prove to be overly dependent on these tools.

• They show signs of becoming fantastic multi-taskers. Because they are used to handling so many forms of technology in their daily lives, they are fantastic multi-taskers. This might present a problem once they are working since the challenge will be to keep the Gen Zs motivated and focused on the task at hand.

• Gen Z is highly educated. This will be the most educated generation to date. With this prestige comes strong opinions on everything and they might not do so well at taking suggestions. Even though they are well educated, they may not be drawn to the same types of jobs. What we think of as prestigious professions, like doctors and scientists, might not hold much value for this group.

• They process information quickly. Thanks to the internet, Generation Z is used to instant results – and can be very impatient when they don’t get them. With instant results also comes the ability to process information very quickly, which can be an extremely valuable trait in the workforce.

• They prefer informal communications. Gen Z is typically self-directed, individualistic and private. But when it comes to sharing their lives on the internet, they are much less restricted than other generations. They interact primarily through the digital world and as a result they might lack in interpersonal skills, verbal communication and expression—which can come across as a lack of confidence. This contrasts with Gen Y, who are typically seen as people pleasers and team players.

Gen Z is just now getting their first jobs. And in the coming years as Boomers begin to retire, Gen Z will get a chance to show the working world how their skill set will drive business forward.