Cool Companies Care: How ESG Wins Gen Z

Gen Z means business when it comes to saving the planet. They are an insistent generation that demands their employers are just as concerned and active in environmental causes as they are. But how can you have them notice you in turn? Here's the key: speak their language — sustainability; but be warned: they can see through greenwashing, and don't want to work for companies just saying the right things.

Why Is Generation Z So Eco-Prudent?

A group defined by experiences unique to them, most Gen Zers tend to be very environmentally and sociopolitically conscious. They quit if a company doesn't share their values. There's no fear of losing them.

Attract Eco-Conscious Talent

Do not Greenwash. Gen Z will catch you. Just know how to truly resonate with them:

• Strong ESG Strategy: Set a clear roadmap for the environmental, social, and governance goals that you wish to hit. Make sure you're clear on the 'how' with concrete action steps, transparent in your goals, because after all, the Gen-Z doer sees right through inauthenticity.
• Green at the Core: Let ESG principles infuse into your company culture and way of decision-making. Sustainability is not an afterthought; let that be the basis of anything that you do.
• Transparency Always: Be open and honest about all your ESG efforts; communicate successes and challenges. A company that walks the pathway of sustainability builds trust with its Gen Z consumer.
• Empower Green Action: Allow employees to get involved in green action, for example under ESG, by letting them contribute and see the difference they can make. This empowers them, not only increasing their engagement but tapping into their passion for a better future.

Why ESG Matters to Gen Z

ESG is no fashion for Gen Z; it's a core value. Being an eco-conscious generation, they seem to care quite a lot about the impacts their work is going to create. They look for employers with whom they can really relate and who work for a green future.

The Benefits of ESG

Prioritizing ESG isn't only the right thing to do for the planet but absolutely good for business. It helps you:

• Attract Top Talent: Gen Z will be the next workforce generation that set the tone for your company in terms of environmental responsibility.

A study from the Glassdoor Economic Research group showed that 76% of employees and job seekers globally consider a firm's social and environmental commitments when choosing a place to work.

• Build a Solid Employer Brand: An ESG commitment resonates with Gen Z. It powers up your employer brand.

A Cone Communications study found that 75% of Millennials and Gen Zers are willing to work in a socially responsible company even if it means a pay cut.

• Boost Employee Engagement: A report by Harvard Business Review Analytic Services found that companies with strong ESG performance have higher employee engagement rates.

5 Steps toward a Greener Lifestyle

Recruiters may involve in certain activities concerning company's ESG:

1. Internalize ESG: Be in a position to understand the essence and meaning of the ESG in your organization; now you are able to communicate the same from within to those on the outside.
2. Sustainably Source: Attend sustainability/social responsibility platforms and events to scout a center of excellence for Gen Z. Identify top universities and institutions with outstanding ESG impact.
3. Digital Spotlight: Leverage digital platforms and employer branding efforts to spotlight company ESG efforts. Showcase employees who are an active part of sustainability.
4. Employee Impact: Bring to life how employees are really making a difference. This can be achieved through the sharing of employee-driven projects or outcomes of the sustainable efforts taking place within the company.
5. Interview Integration: Don't just say, show! In the interview process, a constant repeat is the company's focus on ESG matters. Let it be clearly defined on how the role to be assumed by each candidate has an impact on ESG matters. It will be seen that the company's values are embodied in daily work.

By following these steps, you will become powerful advocates for attracting and retaining the next generation of green superstars who are passionate about making a positive difference.

Keep reading for more insights and getting on top of the Gen Z recruiting game!