To reap the benefits of Gen Z’s strong technical ability, innovative outlook and passion for development, consider streamlining your hiring process, prioritising skills-testing, and maintaining diversity and inclusion.
Gen Z employees already make up about 27% of the workforce and are expected to represent the majority by 2035. Generation Z refers to the demographic born between 1997 and 2012, so many are already establishing themselves in the working world and the rest are soon to follow.
Benefits of Recruiting Generation Z
Making the effort to cater to Gen Z candidates is a great business decision with numerous benefits. As they have grown up in a digital age around extensive technological development, they are tech savvy and quick to learn and adapt to new systems or software, even in non-STEM roles.
They are plucky and resilient from entering education and the workforce during turbulent economic times and the COVID pandemic. This has set them up well to deal with unforeseen circumstances and they are strong problem-solvers.
Gaining fresh perspectives is invaluable when running a business to ensure you don’t stagnate, and Gen Z are brilliant for this with their forward thinking and strong awareness of current trends and advancements.
Gen Z are also keen to develop their skills and advance within their role, meaning that investing in training a young starter can lead to you gaining an integral employee within the company.
Gen Z Recruitment Tips
When recruiting, try to advertise roles online or through social media to reach a younger demographic. Streamline your hiring process with modern software and offer first-stage interviews digitally, such as over a Zoom call. Review candidates based on their skills and knowledge, rather than years of experience in a specific role.
Cultivate a diverse and inclusive workplace. Not only will this have strong benefits for all employees but particularly appeals to younger demographics. 80% of Gen Z employees have said they would leave their current role to find one that more aligned with their values.
Offering a range of benefits can make you stand out against other employers. Work life balance is important to Gen Z, and providing remote or flexible working options can help you to gain and keep Gen Z talent. Given the current economic instability, a competitive salary also makes a big difference to Gen Z employees.
Lastly, invest in career development opportunities and programs. Apprenticeships, internships or mentorships especially appeal to Gen Z workers who want to develop their skills and learn while working. These can also save your company money.
Companies have been shown to strongly benefit from employing Gen Z staff, and they are the future of the working world, so it is worth adapting your hiring strategies to cater to them. For more advice on managing employees and running a business, check out the All Things Business Knowledge Hub.
