Exploring Generational Shifts in the Workforce

Everyone’s buzzing about the movie Wicked. It was highly anticipated, and at this point, it seems like just about everyone has seen it. I watched it with my kids this past weekend, and it sparked some fascinating conversations between my wife and me about good vs. evil and how much perception shapes our understanding. It’s amazing how our unique experiences give us entirely different perspectives on the same story. Someone else could watch Wicked and come away with a completely different takeaway than I did.

The film is a perfect example of how there are always two sides to every story, and naturally, it got me thinking about what I know best—recruiting. I recently came across a video that caught my attention. It felt like I was only getting one side of the story—Glinda’s side, if you ask me—and it struck me how relevant this is to the post-pandemic job market. In hiring and firing, especially in today’s climate, there are always two sides: the company’s perspective and the candidate’s experience. Both matter, and understanding the full picture is crucial for building strong teams.

It’s funny how a movie about witches can lead to insights about recruiting, but that’s the beauty of fresh perspectives—they’re everywhere if you’re open to them.

?Gen Z: Hired Today, Gone Tomorrow?

A recent report revealed that 6 in 10 bosses have already let go of some Gen Z college graduates hired this summer. The reason? A lack of workplace etiquette, according to many. But is this the full story?

Workplace expectations—like professionalism, communication, and adaptability—have always been essential. However, Millennials and Gen Z face unique challenges: stagnant wages, increasing costs of living, and evolving definitions of career success. Are these societal factors influencing how young professionals approach their roles—or how employers perceive them?

This isn’t just a one-sided issue. It’s a sign of changing dynamics in the workplace, and it raises questions about how both employees and employers can adapt.

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Turnover Trends: New Normal or Old Story?

Is today’s high turnover among young professionals truly a modern phenomenon, or have we seen this before? Without robust historical data for direct comparison, it’s hard to say if current numbers are unprecedented, but trends across industries reveal important insights.

Industries like leisure and hospitality—where turnover has historically been high—reported a turnover rate of 5.7% in 2024, down from 8.1% in 2023. By contrast, the finance and insurance sector consistently experiences lower churn, with a turnover rate of just 2.6% in 2024. This stark difference highlights the impact of industry dynamics and the quality of roles on employee retention.

Jobs offering competitive compensation, clear advancement opportunities, and robust training programs tend to retain employees longer. Meanwhile, positions in sectors like retail and food service, where these attributes are often lacking, face ongoing challenges with employee retention.

The question isn’t just how much turnover exists—it’s where and why it happens. Are young professionals leaving because of generational differences, or are systemic issues within certain industries creating these patterns?

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A Matter of Perspective

Much like the difference between The Wizard of Oz and Wicked, whether someone is a hero or a villain often depends on your point of view.

For some, the issue lies with Gen Z professionals who may not be fully prepared for workplace expectations. For others, the responsibility rests with employers who may not provide the training and support these new hires need to succeed. Or perhaps the answer is somewhere in between, shaped by broader economic and cultural shifts.

Instead of assigning blame, the focus should shift toward building bridges—helping young professionals navigate workplace norms while empowering employers to adapt to changing expectations.

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The Bigger Picture

At its core, this is a conversation about more than just etiquette. It’s about how the modern workforce is evolving and what it takes to create stronger, more productive relationships between employees and employers.

What trends are you noticing in your workplace? Are younger professionals finding their footing, or are businesses struggling to keep up with a new generation’s approach to work?

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We Want to Hear from You

Have you observed these dynamics in your own industry? How can businesses and employees work together to close the gap? Your insights could shape the future of recruiting and workplace culture.

Share your perspective—we’re listening.

Recruiting Insight of the Month:

In recruiting, like in Wicked, perspective changes everything—sometimes the perfect fit isn't what you expected at first glance. Take the time to uncover the story behind the resume, and you might find the talent your team truly needs.