Hiring Gen Z: What Gen Z Wants in the Workplace

As Gen Z prepares to step into the workforce, understanding their values is imperative for companies looking to hire top talent. To attract and retain Gen Z employees, you must align your recruitment strategies with their values. Employers must also create a workplace culture where Gen Z employees feel understood, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Let’s take a closer look at some of these values and how you can apply them to the process of attracting and hiring Gen Z employees. 

7 Things Gen Z Values in the Workplace 

So, what does Gen Z want in the workplace? Here are the values Gen Z candidates tend to hold and how to prioritize these when hiring.

Good Work-Life Balance 

Gen Z values workplaces that acknowledge the significance of personal well-being alongside professional responsibilities. A good work-life balance has several benefits for both employees and employers, including higher productivity and motivation, improved employee engagement, and better mental and physical health. 

iHire’s 2024 Gen Z in the Workforce Report confirmed Gen Z’s strong desire for a work-life balance: 81.3% of Gen Zers surveyed said it was “extremely important” or “very important” for their employer to allow them the flexibility to achieve a healthy work-life balance (see chart below).

Highlighting flexible work arrangements in job postings signals an openness to diverse work schedules, catering to individual needs. Offering remote work options further shows adaptability and trust in employees’ productivity beyond traditional office settings.

In addition, emphasizing initiatives that promote mental well-being, such as wellness programs, mindfulness sessions, or mental health days, communicates a genuine commitment to supporting employees’ holistic health. In fact, 38.9% of Gen Zers believe it’s essential for employers to offer mental health benefits, according to iHire’s research.

When you showcase these aspects in your hiring process, you convey your understanding of the evolving work landscape, recognizing that balancing work and personal life is essential for sustained productivity and employee satisfaction. 

Peer Coaching and Support Systems 

Peer coaching, teamwork, and communication are important for Gen Z in the workforce. They value employers that encourage collaboration and foster growth and learning, as this indicates a dynamic and supportive workplace conducive to their professional development. 

Consider highlighting mentorship programs in job listings or company descriptions to attract potential candidates and promote a supportive work environment. Explain how these programs encourage personal and professional development and career progress through collaboration and guidance, which can inspire individuals to reach new heights.

Organizations that encourage peer-to-peer learning by providing internal knowledge-sharing forums or skill-sharing sessions demonstrate their commitment to continuous growth. Posting stories or testimonials that show how collaboration and guidance have helped employees advance in their careers can attract more Gen Z candidates as it speaks to their eagerness for learning and growth opportunities.

Teamwork and Communication 

Gen Z has proven to be a remarkable example of how people can build each other up, communicate openly, and collaborate effectively. Make sure to mention these crucial aspects in your hiring process when you tackle hiring the Gen Z workforce. Underline the importance of collaboration and communication in job descriptions. Use phrases like “thrive in a collaborative environment” or “strong communication skills required.”

During the application process, include team-based assessments or questions that gauge candidates’ ability to work in groups. Implement communication training programs to show your commitment to improving these skills.

When hired, organize group discussions or collaborative tasks for Gen Z employees. Illustrate how effective communication and teamwork are fundamental to achieving shared objectives within the organization. 

Social Awareness and Responsibility 

Another important value near and dear to Gen Z’s hearts is social awareness and responsibility. Emphasize your company’s commitment to social causes and ethical practices in job postings. Bring up initiatives or partnerships focused on community engagement, sustainability efforts, or social impact programs.

During the application process, inquire about candidates’ involvement in social causes or their views on corporate social responsibility. Mention any volunteer programs or social impact initiatives your company supports to show your dedication to making a positive difference.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

Attracting and retaining top talent from the next generation requires prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Perhaps more so than previous generations, Gen Z values these principles as essential pillars for creating a safe and productive work environment for everyone – 68.0% of Gen Z candidates believe it’s “extremely important” or “very important” for their potential employer to be committed to DEI. When embracing DEI, companies can create a welcoming work culture that fosters inclusivity, understanding, and respect among employees.

To spotlight these values in your hiring process, explicitly mention your commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace in job descriptions. Highlight diversity programs, inclusion initiatives, and equality policies.

During the application process, use unbiased language and include questions that assess candidates’ views on diversity and inclusion. Mention diversity training or workshops available to display an active effort toward creating an inclusive environment.

Honesty and Transparency 

Honesty and transparency are fundamental values that resonate deeply with Gen Z in the workplace. To emphasize the importance of honesty and transparency in your hiring process for those entering the workforce, highlight open communication and clearly outline your company policies.

Be clear and transparent in discussing job roles and expectations. Provide a comprehensive overview of the company’s culture and values to set honest expectations for potential candidates.

Encourage Gen Z candidates to ask questions in interviews about your company practices, nurturing an open dialogue that reflects your commitment to transparency and psychological safety.

Create Your Account Today

Start Hiring

Technology Integration

Gen Z has grown up with easy access to technology, from smartphones to computers and beyond. They have become familiar with all types of technology at an early age. As such, technology should be an important consideration when hiring Gen Z workers. 

Highlight your company’s innovative use of technology in your job descriptions, such as cutting-edge tools, software, and digital platforms that enhance productivity and collaboration. Showcase any specialized training programs or opportunities for learning the latest tech advancements to appeal to young people entering the workforce.

.

Embracing Gen Z Values for a Thriving Future

Incorporating Gen Z values into your company culture isn’t just a trend – it’s a strategic move toward securing a talented and motivated workforce. Businesses that align their recruitment strategies with these Gen Z values gain a competitive edge by creating an environment that attracts and retains this generation’s top talent.

Understanding the significance of Gen Z hiring trends and values like work-life balance, technological integration, DEI, and social responsibility is necessary. Gen Z candidates will naturally gravitate to companies where they feel seen, heard, and valued. They actively prioritize those that ensure their values, aspirations, and needs are not only acknowledged but also genuinely supported.

iHire understands the evolving dynamics of the workforce and the importance of connecting employers with candidates whose values align with their organizational culture. Whether you’re a job seeker or an employer, we can help you find and build a workplace that not only caters to Gen Z values but also thrives in the ever-evolving employment landscape.