Generation Z is defined as the group of individuals born after the mid 90s, and they are the next generational wave to hit the workforce. Employers may have just started to understand the millennial workforce and now will have to wrap their heads around this new group of workers as well. Estimated to reach a population of 80 million, companies will inevitably see this new group of workers influencing their bottom line. As the Generation Z attitude and lifestyle is influenced by the events and culture of their time, understanding this new workforce is an important goal of employers who are interested in hiring young workers. Today’s article will discuss the wants and needs, as well as the qualities of Generation Z workers.
Defining Generation Z
If you are wondering what makes Gen Z individuals different, the answer often comes back to their lifestyle choices. Generation Z kids grew up surrounded by the latest technological trends and devices. They use their smartphones more than desktop computers, watch the least amount of TV per day of the past four generations, and are hyper aware of advertising and often go out of their way to avoid it. They are drawn towards the latest gadgets and prefer cool products over cool experiences. They create the culture they thrive in, with an entrepreneurial spirit with the ways and means to have their voices heard. Overall, they are an exciting, if potentially disruptive group who are sure to make a large impact as they step into their careers.
Generation Z at Work
Generation Z workers are entrepreneurial and naturally tech savvy. They are greatly aware of their need and ability to collaborate and manage others. They are generally skilled at online research, with far-reaching technological skills and have an eye for innovation. As this workforce is still relatively new, the majority of workers are unlikely to have more than a bachelor’s degree, but college education is still of value to them as a whole. Less idealistic than their millennial predecessors, Gen Z workers have a more practical and realistic view of the world having grown up in an era defined by economic recession, terrorism and other complexities. They are increasingly aware of the value of privacy and at the same time are highly skilled at multitasking. All these characteristics require employers to look at recruitment and retention of these Generation Z workers a little differently.
Communicating With Generation Z
If you are interested in reaching out to this group of skilled and innovative workers, you must learn to speak their language. Identify the correct social platforms and communication channels that align with both your requirements and the interests of these young workers. Facebook and Twitter are no longer the social media channels of choice when it comes to digital outreach. Snapchat and Instagram are where you can find a Generation Z audience. Mobile marketing and recruitment is likely more fruitful than traditional channels as well. Generation Z individuals prefer consuming video content to reading lengthy blogs or job descriptions, and be sure to keep communications brief and to the point so as to not lose their interest before getting your message across.
Interested in seeing what energy a youthful workforce can bring to your business? Contact the staffing consultants at ACS Professional Staffing today to help your company connect with Generation Z workers in the greater Portland and Vancouver areas.