The Hiring Revolution: How Generation Z is Changing the Way We Recruit and Hire

14 of March, 2023

With their unique set of skills and expectations, Generation Z is revolutionizing the way we recruit and hire. Born after 1995, this digital-savvy generation is the first to grow up in an age of readily available technology. And as such, they are accustomed to instant gratification and personalized experiences.

With a focus on values-driven organizations and a greater emphasis on work/life balance, Generation Z is demanding a shift in the way companies approach hiring. They want to make a difference, and they want to work for employers who share their values and prioritize their well-being.

As such, employers must find creative ways to attract, engage, and retain the best talent from this new generation. By adapting their hiring practices to the needs of Generation Z, employers can gain a competitive edge in the changing job market. Let’s dive into this theme!

The impact of technology on Generation Z

For many, it might come as a surprise that a generation that grew up with technology is more human-centered than their predecessors. However, the increased use of technology in the lives of Generation Z has actually increased their desire for human connection.

With the majority of their social interactions taking place online, this generation has learned how to authentically communicate and form relationships through screens. Thereby fostering a sense of digital literacy and fluency.

Generation Z is accustomed to communicating with people from all over the world. Studies show that the ease with which they navigate digital communication has given them the confidence to build global networks and break down cultural barriers.

Similarly, Generation Z has grown up with an increased awareness of sustainability and social issues. With the majority having access to social media from a young age, this generation has been exposed to a greater number of causes and issues than past generations.

As a result, they are more likely to be drawn to organizations and employers who have a purpose beyond profit. Employers seeking to attract Generation Z must emphasize their environmental and social impact and demonstrate their commitment to philanthropy and social issues.

The values and expectations of Generation Z

With the majority of Generation Z having grown up in the challenging economic conditions of the Great Recession, this generation is focused on financial security, career growth, and stability in their employment.

However, they are also drawn to companies who are focused on the well-being of their employees, and are less interested in high salaries than perks that promote work/life balance. These include health and wellness benefits, flexible work arrangements, and remote work options.

Generation Z is also focused on meaning and purpose in their work. This generation wants to be part of organizations and employers who are socially responsible and are actively making the world a better place.

They want to be able to make an immediate impact and see the value of their work and are not interested in companies that only turn a profit. Instead, they are interested in organizations that are actively making positive change in their communities.

Ways to attract and engage Generation Z

Traditional recruitment methods such as job boards and career fairs are less effective with Generation Z and should be supplemented by a variety of new strategies. Employers can take advantage of the fact that Generation Z is a digital native.

This generation spends more time on social media than any other age group, and as such, is more likely to discover jobs on these platforms than any other source.

Employers can also take advantage of the fact that Generation Z is interested in social impact. Employers can promote the positive change their organization is making in the world, and showcase the impact their work has on the general public. The communication of your company has to adapt to them.

Strategies for retaining Generation Z talent

While many employers are focused on attracting Generation Z talent, it is equally important to retain them. While this generation is interested in remote work and flexible schedules, they also place a greater emphasis on work/life balance.

Employers should therefore focus on creating cultures that promote work/life balance and prioritizing the well-being of their employees. This can be done in several ways. Employers can offer flexible work schedules and provide the option for employees to work remotely.

Companies can provide health and wellness benefits such as gym memberships, meditation classes, or healthy snacks. Employers can also actively look for ways to minimize employee stress and increase their sense of control over their work.

This can be done through company culture initiatives such as mindfulness programs or values-based management.

Benefits of hiring Generation Z

Although Generation Z is the most highly educated generation, they have faced challenges finding jobs. Employers have been slow to adapt to the needs of this new generation, and have been unwilling to adapt hiring practices to meet the needs of a more diverse talent pool.

As a result, Gen-Z has had to be more resourceful in finding jobs, leading many to change careers and pursue roles in industries that better fit their skills and interests. Gen-Z has had to be creative in finding jobs, and as such, employers who are willing to adapt their hiring practices to meet the needs of this new generation can benefit from their resourcefulness and creativity.

This generation is digitally savvy and accustomed to navigating online platforms and communication. As such, they can be a highly effective resource for employers who want to modernize their hiring practices.

Additionally, Gen-Z is focused on a work/life balance, meaning that they are less likely to work long hours or weekends than previous generations. Employers who hire Gen-Z talent can therefore expect lower turnover rates and higher productivity.

The future of recruitment and hiring

As technology continues to evolve and more Gen-Zers enter the workforce, it is expected that human-centered hiring practices will become more commonplace. Employers can expect to see a shift away from traditional hiring practices and a greater emphasis on values-driven recruitment.

This can be seen in a variety of ways, including an increased use of social media and virtual interviews. Employers should expect to see an increased use of personality tests, as these are more effective at assessing values than traditional interviews.

Similarly, employers can expect to see an increased use of assessments designed to measure values. As the way in which we recruit and hire evolves, employers must keep an eye on new technologies and trends and find creative ways to attract and engage candidates.

We hope that this article was useful to enlighten your strategies to deal with Gen-Z workers. Using HR software such as Sesame will surely help to communicate with them. Try it for free right now!