Gen Z’s Perfect Fit in the Workplace

There have been few generations as challenging to keep in the workforce as Gen Z. This statement is true on several levels. First, on a literal level, Gen Z is seeing unprecedented turnover rates. 65% of Gen Z quit within the first year of their employment. That’s a rate that’s high without even mentioning members of Gen Z losing jobs in other circumstances. 74% of hiring managers say Gen Z is the hardest generation to work with, meaning firing isn’t uncommon either. Let’s think about how to hire Gen Z below.

These numbers are worrying when one realizes that the workforce will be 30% Gen Z in just seven years. Members of Gen Z find themselves working earlier, they’re more educated, but they can’t hold a position. There’s tons of demand for Gen Z employees but not many who are willing to settle down. In terms of the reasons behind this, it’s complex. 

COVID, above all else, changed how the job market worked on a level that was never before seen. Layoffs were particularly common during the pandemic and Gen Z took the brunt of the damage. Considering this on top of the rapidly changing culture fostered by COVID made it a weird time for everyone. Yet there was an undeniably strong impact made onto Gen Z as many entered the workforce just as COVID began.

Outside of COVID, there was already a big cultural divide between Gen Z and the older generations employing them. This divide is really what makes up the majority of the issue. Not only due to real and significant differences between generations of past and present, but also because of media exacerbation. Today, large sections of Gen Z hate Baby Boomers and Gen X alike and the sentiment is only shared.  

Although that’s not to say that there aren’t real and significant differences beyond simple hatred. Cultural differences between generations have started to make a real impact in how Gen Z chooses employment. In fact there are a few key factors that Gen Z considers in looking for employment, the first being clear expectations.

Gen Z values mental health and stability in a way that few workplaces account for. The ability to have an exact understanding of salary and benefit details, expectations, and ways to grow are consequently essential. More than 50% of Gen Z demand salary transparency to even accept a job position. Gen Z, more than any other generation, likes to know exactly what they’re getting into. 

Another factor that goes right along with explicit expectations is clear and meaningful communication. This can mean quick responses with a lack of extra detail and distractions. Although it also more meaningfully means developing a good relationship with people in the workplace. Members of Gen Z really desire connecting with their coworkers and even employers. It’s not just enough to be connected in work, they want real relationships with those they work with.

And finally Gen Z values workplace respect. This may sound obvious and like a universal principle at first, but the type of respect is what’s significant. Older workplaces tend to prioritize respect built on hierarchy, built on seniority. Gen Z rejects this and instead demands respect built on cooperation and appreciation. Showing appreciation for a job well done, understanding exceptional circumstances, this is what shows respect to members of Gen Z.

These factors are what’s causing a lot of the tension between Gen Z and generations past. That’s not to say that all members of Gen Z care for something like meaningful workplace relationships. It’s also not to say that certain Baby Boomers disregard that as something important either. Instead, it’s to say that these are the norm for appreciated values in Gen Z. 

Workplaces today must learn to accommodate these values if they hope to employ Gen Z. Gen Z members between 18 and 34 could switch jobs 10 plus times. Even if an employer manages to snag a member of Gen Z, even if they manage to keep them past a year, it’s not enough. Fostering an environment where young employees can build a career is key. More than ever the workplace has to market themself just as much as those they hope to employ. For those hoping to employ Gen Z, become the perfect place for them to be.

Source: Abode HR