How to attract Gen Z Employees

In case you missed it, individuals born between 1997 and 2012 are known as Generation Z, or colloquially Gen Z. This population accounts for about 26% of the world’s population.

Gen Z is the generation that lives and thrives on TikTok; in fact, according to a recent study, they have started to amass income through their content creation on social media platforms. Attracting Gen Z to work for traditional employers means coming up with creative and intentional methods as well as creating a work model that retains employees.

Here are some ways to attract Gen Z talent.

1. Allow for flexibility

This new cohort of employees value employers who offer flexibility, whether that comes in the shape of work from home, flexible working patterns, unlimited PTO, or other opportunities to have more of a work/life balance. Workplace flexibility has now become the norm due to the pandemic who thrive on hybrid and remote positions, with the option to collaborate with colleagues in real life at happy hours, off-site retreats, or occasional office meetings.

2. Diversity Initiatives

Values are critical for a Gen Zer when making a determination of what their next employer is. Typically this means that Gen Z prioritizes companies who focus on diversity and inclusion as a fundamental part of their business model, not just at sporadic times throughout the year. As an organization, this means being transparent about what diversity and inclusion initiatives you hold fundamental to your brand, what programming you hold throughout the year, and how you give back to underrepresented communities. These are points that hiring managers should be prepared to address and promote at the interview stage.?

Gen Z really values candor. If there are current employees who align with a potential candidate’s values and background, it may be a good idea to connect the two if that candidate feels more comfortable asking questions about the company’s culture and objectives.

3. Use Technology Efficiently?

This is the generation that grew up with technology and had access to the Internet and smartphones since they were in their single digit years. Recruiting methods therefore should reflect this connection to the world wide web. In terms of recruiting, utilize platforms where you can message or text Gen Z talent versus using email or making traditional phone calls (let’s face it, most Gen Z hate taking or making phone calls). In the world of instant, low pressure interactions, texting is the best mode of communication with this generation of talent.

4. Mental Health and Wellness

Prioritizing employee well-being goes beyond just giving free lunches and snacks or allowing a casual dress code. Employers are increasingly prioritizing their employee’s mental health. As a hiring company, ensure that your HR benefits and initiatives include mental health days, therapy or counseling, and other methods to provide your employees any mental health support they may need. Some other ways to ensure mental health and wellness are being prioritized, employers can offer gym memberships, unlimited PTO and company-wide meditation.?

5. Career Advancement?

Retaining Gen Z talent is as important as attracting talent. One of the best ways to ensure Gen Z remains at their jobs is to offer career advancement opportunities in the form of professional development workshops, continued advancement and mentorship opportunities. Mentorship especially, is key, as Gen Z is focused on growing as a professional and less on being micromanaged.?