So, You've Hired a Gen Z...

You’re definitely not alone. Many companies around the world are welcoming this unique generation into their workforce at break-neck speeds. Gen Z currently represents around 2 billion people of the world’s current population and by 2025 is predicted to account for 27% of the entire workforce . They are between the ages of 12 and 27, establishing their budding careers and figuring out how to navigate their professions. It is the biggest generational cohort the world has ever seen, and like every generation they are shaped by the environment, technology, and socio-economic climate of their time.?

In this article we will be describing just how these factors influence the needs, desires, and opinions of Gen Z, to better understand them to increase employee satisfaction, and attraction/retention efforts.?

How are they different?

Technology: Gen Z is the first generation to have grown up entirely in a digital age. They are true digital natives, comfortable with technology from a young age and adept at navigating various digital platforms and tools such as AI and social media. This proficiency with technology shapes their preferences and expectations in the workplace, where they often seek out roles that offer opportunities for innovation, digital collaboration, and access to cutting-edge technologies.

Age: Many members of Gen Z are in the early stages of their careers, which means they are prioritising opportunities for growth, skill development, and mentorship in their job searches. Additionally, their youthfulness can bring fresh perspectives and a willingness to challenge traditional norms and practices in the workplace. However, in a time when companies are increasingly looking for 3-5 years of experience for entry level positions, Gen Z are facing intense difficulties in getting a foot in the door.

Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the worldview and priorities of Gen Z. Growing up during a time of economic uncertainty, social upheaval, and remote learning, they value stability, adaptability, and resilience in their professional environments. With most of the older generations also being affected by these pandemic conditions and left without work, Gen Z’s are finding it harder to stand out amongst the competition of the more experienced cohorts in the hunt to find a job. The pandemic has also accelerated trends towards remote work and digitalisation, influencing Gen Z's expectations for flexible work arrangements and remote-friendly job opportunities.

What do they want?

Sustainability: Gen Z is deeply concerned about environmental issues and sustainability. They are passionate about working for companies that prioritise corporate social responsibility, sustainability initiatives, and ethical business practices. Organisations that demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship and social impact are more likely to attract and retain Gen Z talent.

Work-life balance: A top priority for Gen Z. They value time for personal pursuits, hobbies, and relationships outside of work. Flexible work schedules, generous paid time-off policies, and remote work options are highly desirable benefits for Gen Z employees. They seek employers who understand the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and life commitments, and generally prioritise salary less than other generations.

Remote work: The pandemic has normalised remote work and accelerated the adoption of digital collaboration tools. In other words, it is here to stay. Gen Z appreciates the flexibility and autonomy that remote work offers, allowing them to work from anywhere and maintain a better work-life balance. Companies that offer remote work opportunities and invest in remote-friendly technology will be more appealing to Gen Z candidates.

Flexibility: Gen Z values flexibility in all aspects of their lives, including their careers. According to Yahoo Finance,? “42% of Gen Zs value work-life balance, remote working and flexible leave as their top priorities when looking for a job. ” They are attracted to employers who offer flexible work arrangements, career development opportunities, and the ability to customise their work experiences to suit their individual needs and preferences. Whether it's flexible scheduling, remote work options, or project-based assignments, Gen Z seeks freedom in how they approach their work.

A New Medium

The challenges and opportunities brought by Gen Z entering and establishing themselves in the workforce are numerous. There is no doubt that this generation will create a long-lasting legacy on our world and shape the way we approach work as a whole. It is true that in order to successfully welcome Gen Z into the workforce, things must change for the better.

This is why at HYVER we are pioneering a new medium of recruitment and providing staff sharing solutions to entice such a flexible and dynamic workforce. But staff sharing is not only benefiting Gen Z, and many companies are already hailing the benefits provided by our services across all demographics. To learn more about how HYVER has already benefited companies, watch this case study where GlowingCo describes their success using staff sharing by HYVER to overcome the challenges set in place by COVID-19.

If you want to read more about how the workforce is changing in other ways, read our article: “From Search to Hire: Why Recruitment is Changing and How to Keep Ahead of the Curve.”