Tips for attracting and retaining Gen Z talent

Gen Z encompasses those people born between 1996 and 2010. These are people who have grown up entirely in the digital age, and during years when the emphasis on climate change, diversity and inclusion, and physical and mental wellbeing has shifted significantly.

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Add to that the fact that they have taken their early steps into the world of work to a background of a pandemic and its lockdowns, followed by a cost-of-living crisis that is likely to go on for some time yet.

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Generation Z talent brings unique characteristics, values and preferences to the workplace. Their priorities may well prove to be very different to any generation that has gone before, but they are just as valuable and impactful in the workplace.

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Attracting and retaining this talent may require a shift in recruitment strategies, so what do Gen Z employees want? Read our following tips to find out.

How to attract Gen Z talent

Embrace digital – Generation Z is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age. Use social media and online platforms to engage with them. An active online presence that showcases your company's culture, values and opportunities is important if you want to capture their attention.

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Values - communicate your company's mission, social responsibility efforts, and the positive impact employees can make as clearly as possible. Align your company's values with those of Generation Z candidates, who are often motivated by a sense of purpose and values-driven work.

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Work-life balance – offer flexible working arrangements. Generation Z employees appreciate the ability to work remotely, with flexible hours and they have a strong focus on outcomes rather than just the amount of time spent working.

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Progression - Gen Z workers value continuous learning and needs to know there are opportunities for personal and professional growth in any job that they take. Show how your company is committed to training and career advancement.

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Diversity and inclusion – this generation is the most diverse yet, and they appreciate workplaces that celebrate different backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. Show that your company takes diversity and inclusion seriously but be sincere about it and don’t just tick boxes. Gen Z employees value transparency from employers.

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Health and wellbeing – Generation Z employees have an expectation that a company will be open about and responsive to any issues regarding the importance of employee wellbeing and mental health and will actively seek employers who make this a priority.

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Innovation – don’t get stuck in the ‘dark ages’. Keep technology moving forward and listen carefully to ideas about how you could continue to improve your processes.

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Recognition – regular feedback helps create a collaborative environment and Generation Z appreciates opportunities to contribute their ideas and feel like they are part of a team. Meaningful recognition for doing a good job is appreciated.

Having said all that, it is important to remember that this is simply an overview, individual preferences exist within any generation and everyone, of every age and generation, should be treated according to their own needs and values. But overall, flexibility and a willingness to adapt your strategies will contribute to your success in recruiting and retaining Gen Z talent.

ACS Staffing Solutions has the experience to help employers understand what strategies and processes they could look at introducing to appeal to Gen Z. Contact us online or give us a call on 01604 704058.