Who are Generation Z and why you need to know
The first, fully-immersed, technology natives: this tends to be the go-to tagline for Generation Z workers. Born between 1996 - 2010 (according to Career Planner), Generation Z are coming of age around about… now. So it’s high time, as a recruiter, you learn a few things about what makes them tick on the job market.
How do Generation Z differ from previous generations?
First and foremost, to generalise any generation is a risky hiring manoeuvre. Just because studies suggest that Gen Z candidates are better multitaskers than Millennials, doesn’t mean that it’s a truth across the board. So our disclaimer here is: the following advice is based on findings from large studies - but exceptions can always occur.
There. That’s our backs covered, let’s get on with it.
Generation Z are perceived as being more entrepreneurial than any previous generation. The reasons for this can be down to multiple things - such as access to advanced technology, right through to the ability to connect with people on a global scale. Opportunities to be your own boss have never been so accessible, but what does this mean for the recruiter?
Well it means that the Gen Z candidate needs to be kept happy through means other than money. Lifestyle is just as important as salary to them, so offering plenty of perks - from remote working to flexitime - can make the difference in making a successful hire.
Hiring a graduate (the oldest Gen Z candidates are around 21 years old now) can bring with it advantages and disadvantages, depending on the role and company. Let’s take a look at what these can be …