Business, Economics and Law
As Generation Z enters the workforce, their preferences on informal communication have gained significant attention across modern organisations, challenging traditional workplace norms. Informal communication has been recognised as a key driver of collaboration and engagement in modern organisations, yet its role in shaping workplace relationships within industries that prioritize formal interactions, such as banking, remains unclear. This study seeks to explore the impact of informal communication on workplace relationships among Gen Z employees in the banking industry, addressing a gap in existing research. The primary aim of this study is to explore the ways in which Generation Z employees in the banking sector engage in informal communication and how it impacts their workplace relationships. Specifically, the study will examine how informal communication is utilized among Gen Z employees in banking companies. Informal communication’s effects on workplace relationships will be explored to identify the potential benefits and challenges associated with informal communication in a traditionally formal work environment. Participants will take part in semi-structured interviews sharing their perspectives, perceptions and experiences. These interviews will be conducted either face-to-face or online, based on your preference. Participants will require to engage in a one-on-one interview section with the primary researcher which will last for approximately 45 minutes to 60 minutes. Each participant will take part in a single interview, during which we will discuss about your experiences and perspectives on informal communication in your workplace. You will be answering questions related to the research topic such as workplace interactions, communication styles, impact on professional relationships, etc. For the voluntary participations and for the time, all interview participants who contributed to this research study will receive $30 worth gift card or shopping voucher as a token of appreciation (Koha).
For this research study, we are looking for Generation Z employees working in the New Zealand Banking Industry who have experience with workplace communication dynamics and can share insights about their workplace relationships. You are eligible to take part in this study if you are:
o A Generation Z Employee (Born between 1997 to 2006)
o Aged 18 years or older
o Currently working in the New Zealand banking industry at any banks
o Able to provide informed consent
o Able to communicate and converse in English language
o Have access to a personal computer, laptop and internet
o Can share experiences and insights regarding workplace communication and relationships
You may not be able to participate in this study if you are:
o Working for less than 5 months inside the industry
Approved by the Auckland University of Technology Ethics Committee on 2025-05-21 for Three years (until 21 May 2028).
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Phyo Khant Kyaw, kpd3851@aut.ac.nz
You can browse all AUT research projects currently recruiting for participants on the page below.