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Generation Z (Gen Z), born between 1997 and 2012, is the youngest generation entering the workforce. Their influence is quickly changing the conditions of employment in the workplace. Requests by this cohort for the latest technology, flexible working arrangements, more development opportunities and better company perks are not uncommon. These changing expectations mean that you too will soon have to assess the ways that your business is attracting and retaining Gen Z in the workplace.
Why should you hire Gen Z?
Research shows that a diverse workforce leads to increased creativity and innovation. By including Gen Z employees in your teams, you’re providing your employees with new opinions and insigths into life experiences that are not easily accessed by older employees. Gen Z are not only concerned about the money they earn, but about their future opportunities. As such, these employees are keen to develop and grow their skills across diverse fields.
This generation’s drive to achieve more makes them valuable assets for your business. Gen Z are born multitaskers who do not like to waste time, and they are always looking for new ways of working. They are also used to most things being instantly available through their smartphones’ applications: music, pictures, videos, taxis, food etc. This good knowledge of technology is of great value to any busines.
How can businesses attract, engage and retain Gen Z talent?
The following aspects need to be considered:
- An equitable and socially responsible company culture
Gen Z places culture fit above all other criteria when selecting a place of employment. According to a survey from Monster.com, 83% of Gen-Z candidates said a company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is important. The 2022 Deloitte Gen Z and Millennial Survey reported that younger workers are more likely to define diversity as a mix of experiences, identities, ideas and opinions, rather than the traditional definition of diversity, which includes underrepresented racial, ethnic and gender demographics. Consequently, ensuring that you promote a respectful, inclusive and diverse workplace culture is essential in attracting and retaining top talent in the current labour market.
- A Purpose
Gen Z wants a job that not only pays the bills but one where the ‘why’ or purpose of the business is aligned to their own passions, personalities and values. As Gen Z actively participates in causes that are important to them, your ‘why’ motivates these employees to perform at their optimum as part of their contribution to the greater good.
In addition, they are influenced by the online reviews they read about your business and how your brand is perceived by the public. Of note, protecting the environment is one of their top priorities.
- A career development plan
Gen Z require clear development opportunities for their careers, so your business needs to be promoting a culture of learning and development. If your business demonstrates that it’s invested in your employees, you are more likely to attract and retain Gen Z employees. You should also recognise that Gen Z employees are likely to stay in their current place of employment, if growth opportunities are presented and if they feel that they are developing personally and professionally.
- Health and mental well-being
Gen Z candidates often suffer from stress and anxiety. As such they are more likely to choose to work for your business if mentoring opportunities are provided and if you have a great employee health and wellness programme.
- Genuine human connection
Gen Z craves personal connection, which pivots on empathy, authenticity, shared values, and support and thrive when given the opportunity to collaborate in person.
They were raised in an on-demand environment where likes and reactions were instantaneous. Consequently, Gen Z wants to be seen and heard and prefer face-to-face communication. They desire continuous feedback from supervisors and peers as a lack of feedback from you is perceived as an indication of wrong doing.
They are also open to learning about effective communication in the workplace and with customers.
- Flexible working opportunities
Gen Z is concerned about the cost of living, often struggle to pay their bills and want to ensure that they have sufficient money for retirement. Generation Z is also made up of would-be entrepreneurs. Many of them have second jobs – either full or part time – and require the time to work both. As such a work from home or work remotely policy is important. This allows the flexibility to work both jobs as well assists in saving money on aspects such as travel, clothing, refreshments etc. Many Gen Zs have also moved further away from major cities in order to take advantage of less expensive living costs.
- Digital practices and technology
Gen Z are digital natives, from their earliest youth they have been exposed to the internet, to social networks, and to mobile systems. This experience has resulted in a generation comfortable with integrating technology into their everyday lives and they see it as pivotal to their prosperity. In addition, a 2023 Dell Technologies report stated that Gen Z wants to work with cutting-edge technology. According to the study, 91 percent say that the technology offered by employers would impact choosing a future job.
However, Gen Z is also enthusiastic about the opportunity to mentor some of their older colleagues and teach them about the latest technology trends.
Take proactive steps
As the numbers of Gen Z employees in the workplace grow, so will their impact. As a business owner you need to take proactive steps in order to engage and retain them. By understanding what’s important to them and using their strengths, you will be rewarded with a productive and motivated set of employees to the benefit of all
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