Hannah Simons
Attracting, managing and retaining a multigenerational workforce is essential for a business’s success in today’s economy. Gen Z has now joined the modern workforce and with a new generation comes a shift in challenges, experiences, preferences and attitudes. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the key ways to attract Gen Z to strengthen your modern workforce.
Understanding Gen Z
Gen Z was born between 1997 and 2012, the latest generation in the modern workforce, and one brought forth with more access to the internet and tech advances than ever before. They are expected to comprise 27% of the global workforce by 2025, meaning recruiting and retaining Gen Z is fundamental to any employer’s growth strategies. So who are Gen Z and what are they looking for in their careers?
Gen Z is the first generation to grow up entirely within the digital age, having been immersed in technology and the internet from a very young age. Never having witnessed the non-internet era, Gen Z is able to not only navigate the current digital world effortlessly, but they can also adapt more easily to new technology, making them valuable assets to organisations. Companies can leverage their natural proficiency with digital tools and platforms and by valuing and harnessing these skills, businesses can improve their technological adaptability, drive innovation within their teams, and ensure a competitive edge in an increasingly digital marketplace.
The world of work has experienced a significant amount of change over the last 50 years, with no signs of slowing down. The skills, knowledge and experience necessary for a role 5 years ago may not be the same as the ones required today. With this, Gen Zers are placing a large emphasis on working for organisations that offer opportunities for career growth and development, showing they’re eager to develop their skills and climb the career ladder. In research conducted by LinkedIn, 40% of Gen Zers said they would be willing to accept a pay cut of up to 5% of their salary for a role that offers better career growth. A Deloitte study also found that Gen Z is not reevaluating the value of education, and is quickly becoming the most educated generation in history, with this, they want to continue to future-proof their skills. Organisations that focus on investment in learning, skills and capability development become more attractive to this education-oriented generation. Investing in employees at the beginning of their career shows a commitment to their professional development, and can help to build a loyal, productive and engaged working relationship as they progress. Supporting the Gen Z workforce with training programmes and development opportunities within the business will help attract and retain the modern workforce.
Many Gen Z individuals began their professional journeys during extraordinary times. Some began their University studies online, graduated in virtual ceremonies and started their careers remotely. The pandemic and its subsequent effects on traditional workplaces mean that most of this generation has probably never worked in a conventional office setting or spent full-time hours there. Starting their careers in the shift to remote and hybrid working has made Gen Z protective over their work-life balance, with 59% stating they would not accept a job if it doesn’t provide flexibility in a recent McKinsey survey. These young professionals value workplace flexibility and a work life balance, often asking prospective employers about these in interviews and experience flexible work options as logical and enabling characteristics of modern work. By adapting to this generation's needs, businesses can attract top talent and create a more inclusive and dynamic workplace culture.
As Gen Z entered the workforce, the UK saw a cost-of-living crisis emerge post-pandemic, with the prices of food, energy and rent sky-rocketing. Entering the workforce in difficult conditions, employers might assume that Gen Z has become a pragmatic and risk-averse group, prioritising job security over entrepreneurship. While salary is an important factor in deciding on a job, studies have shown that Gen Z values salary less than every other generation. Yes, money and salary matter, but they’re seeking a more attractive package, one that offers a supplement to their regular salary. More importantly, given the economic climate, Gen Z feels positioned to get those supplements from employers. Businesses aiming to attract Gen Z should offer comprehensive packages beyond salary, training and development, perks, discounts, pension schemes and other company benefits, such as private healthcare, as examples. Employee benefits can go a long way in attracting and retaining Gen Z talent. In turn, you’ll future-proof your business with motivated, rewarded employees that are driven to support your goals.
Furza's tailored approach to hiring anf training junior talent
At Furza, we have a proven track record of success in recruiting, hiring, and training early careers sales talent, specialising in technology and SaaS businesses. Our highly skilled team has a wealth of experience in identifying top-performing individuals that possess the drive and ambition to excel in sales. We understand that hiring the right people is key to achieving business success, and that’s why we go above and beyond to ensure that our candidates are the perfect fit for your company. The Furza team conducts an extensive recruitment campaign, screening and interviewing individuals to fill a dedicated assessment day.
Our rigorous training programme, the Furza Academy, is designed to equip our junior sales talent with the knowledge, skills and tools they need to thrive in sales. We work closely with our clients to contextualise and align the training to ensure the junior hires are fully-ramped in the crucial first three months of their sales career, and ready to hit targets from day one.
Our tailored approach ensures that your business hires, trains and onboards a cohesive team with the drive and potential to support your business growth.
If you’d like to speak further about building a high-performing sales team, contact us here.
