How can your brand cater to Gen Z’s?

There’s a generation stepping onto the event scene with high expectations, zero tolerance for fluff, and a passion for meaningful experiences. Say hello to Gen Z. Born between the mid-90s and early 2010s, they’ve grown up with tech in their pockets, social justice in their hearts, and a finely tuned radar for anything inauthentic. For event planners and especially for staffing agencies, understanding what Gen Z wants isn't just helpful, it’s crucial. This group is shaping the future of events, from how they engage with brands to what kind of experiences they remember and share. So how do you ensure your event staff connect with them in ways that actually stick?

Let’s break it down.

Real People, Not Robots

Gen Z doesn’t want to talk to a walking logo. They want genuine conversations, real energy, and staff who feel human – flaws, personality, and all. This generation has grown up being marketed to their entire lives, so the moment something feels fake or overly polished, they tune out.

Event staff need to go beyond the script. That doesn’t mean going off-brand – it means knowing how to read a room, have a real conversation, and adapt their tone to the people in front of them. Whether it’s answering questions, offering directions, or just setting the mood, a warm, authentic presence goes further than any marketing message.

Let Them In On the Action

Gen Z doesn’t want to be passive attendees. They want to co-create the moment. Whether it’s designing their own tote at a merch station, voting for the next DJ on a screen, or capturing content that’s Insta-worthy, they want to feel like part of the show – not just part of the crowd. Staff are key to making this happen. They should be comfortable encouraging participation, guiding attendees through interactive zones, and helping guests feel like insiders rather than outsiders. When staff feel like part of the vibe, not just people in matching T-shirts, you’ve already won half the battle.

Keep It Digital (But Don’t Overdo It)

This one’s obvious. Gen Z lives online—TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and whatever’s trending tomorrow. But here’s the thing: they don’t want technology for technology’s sake. They want digital tools that make the experience smoother, more fun, and more shareable.

That might mean staff helping guests use an event app, scan a QR code to claim rewards, or even record a TikTok-friendly moment at a photo booth. One recent study showed that over 70% of Gen Z attendees prefer events with a strong digital element, but what they value most is ease and creativity, not tech overload.

So while it’s great to go digital, don’t forget the human touch. Your team needs to bridge the gap between tech and real-life experience.

Purpose Drives Participation

This generation is driven by values. They support brands that take a stand, care about the planet, and make space for everyone. A flashy activation without substance just won’t cut it.

This doesn’t mean every event has to be activist-driven. But staff should be aware of the event’s message – whether it’s sustainability, inclusion, or mental wellness—and be able to communicate that in a meaningful way. If your event is plastic-free or gender-inclusive, your team should proudly promote that. If your brand supports local artists or gives back to a cause, that should be part of the story your staff helps tell.

Three out of four Gen Z consumers say they’re more likely to support a brand that reflects their values. So let your staff be the human face of that alignment.

Make It Fast, Fun, and Shareable

One thing Gen Z doesn’t have is patience. They’ve grown up in a world where everything is instant, from streaming to shopping to news. So when they’re at your event, long queues, slow responses, or unclear instructions are an instant vibe-killer. Your staff should be sharp, upbeat, and ready to respond fast. Whether it’s getting someone into a demo zone, helping them unlock a giveaway, or showing them how to grab that perfect selfie spot, little moments of convenience go a long way. And when it comes to creating memorable experiences, the small stuff matters. A cheerful greeting. A fun interaction. A helping hand when someone looks lost. These things might not show up in a campaign report, but they’re the moments Gen Z remembers, and shares.

In the End, It’s All About the Feeling

Gen Z might be digitally fluent, socially aware, and hyper-connected but at the end of the day, they still want to feel something. Whether it’s excitement, connection, or just good energy, the emotional takeaway is what sticks.

And that’s where great staffing makes all the difference. Your team isn’t just there to manage lines or hand out flyers, they’re part of the story. They set the tone, shape the vibe, and help every guest feel seen. If your staff shows up with confidence, authenticity, and a little extra spark, Gen Z will show up for you. And not just once, they’ll remember, repost, and maybe even bring their friends next time.

Because when you get it right for Gen Z? You’re not just hosting an event. You’re creating a moment they’ll want to be part of again and again.