In the fast-evolving landscape of talent acquisition and retention, Gen Z is reshaping the workforce with its distinct values and aspirations.
With a staggering three in four Gen Z employees willing to switch career paths to align with their values, organisations are recognising the need to adapt and cater to this generation’s unique characteristics.
Ed Johnson, CEO and Co-Founder of the online mentoring platform PushFar, shares four key strategies to attract and retain Gen Z talent.
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Understanding Characteristics of Gen Z
Organisations need to tailor their onboarding strategies to accommodate the unique characteristics of Gen Z. Work-life balance is a priority for this generation, emphasising the importance of quality rest alongside productive work. As digital natives, Gen Z leverages technology to enhance productivity. Employers must align with the like-minded beliefs and values of Gen Z, creating strategies that cater to their distinct needs.
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Showcasing Workplace Community and Culture
Gen Z employees thrive in vibrant communities and value a sense of belonging. Enhancing company culture is crucial to making new hires feel welcomed and included. Employers can achieve this by implementing team-building initiatives, participating in charity work, and adopting a management style that encourages collaboration.
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Investing in Long-term Employee Mentorship
Gen Z places a high value on learning, with 76 percent considering it vital for career advancement. Implementing mentorship programs can boost productivity, engagement, and career development. To maximise the effectiveness of mentorship, organisations should identify the specific skills and knowledge Gen Z employees need. Matching mentors with mentees who can offer relevant guidance is essential.
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Providing Mental Health Support
A concerning 91 percent of 18-24 year olds report feeling stressed and struggling with symptoms of burnout. Recognising the importance of mental health, companies should prioritise the emotional well-being of their employees. Fostering a culture that encourages open communication about mental health concerns and providing easy access to mental health resources can make a significant impact. Offering mental health days or flexible schedules further supports workers prioritising their well-being.
In conclusion, effective onboarding and engagement strategies tailored to Gen Z can pave the way for success, building a strong and loyal workforce. Staying abreast of the latest trends and demonstrating adaptability is crucial for organisations navigating the ever-changing dynamics of the workforce. For organisations seeking to implement effective mentoring programs, further information can be found at www.pushfar.com.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
