Generation Z is also known as post-millennials, iGeneration, Gen Wii or Digital Natives. This generation, born after 1997, makes up the largest (26.5 percent), and most diverse segment of the U.S population. Generation Z has the shortest attention span (8 seconds), and it comprises the world’s first true digital natives.
Today, millennials, also known as Generation Y, make up the majority of the workforce in the U.S. However, employers are still working to retain baby boomers and prevent a skill gap and at the same time, recruiting Generation Z employees. Believe it or not, much as hiring millennials is still a hot topic in HR circles, managers are now discussing ways to recruit and onboard Generation Z employees.
What exactly is Generation Z?
Generation Z refers to the people that were born from the mid-1990s to 2010. However, there is little consensus on the ending birth years. The oldest people in this generation are 23 years old, and this means that they are either preparing to enter or have already entered the workforce.
This generation is tech-savvy and is accustomed to Wi-Fi, the World Wide Web, and smartphones. If you mention a floppy disk, they are most likely to look at you in awe as they are used to storing their data in the cloud.
Generation Z survived the financial recession of 2008, and most of them saw what happened to their parents and grandparents. As a result, they are quite risk averse, and they want to work for mid-sized to large organizations that give them job security. Moreover, they are more entrepreneurial than their predecessors, and they expect to work in an average of four places during their careers. Therefore, they are not job hoppers.
How to recruit Generation Z employees
Some organizations have already hired iGeneration employees. If your organization has not recruited anyone from this generation, yet, worry not. Here are some tips that can help you tap into the best talent from Generation Z:
#1 Be authentic
Generation Z is quite independent due to the fact they grew up having their questions instant answered on Google and accessing invaluable advice from columns and DIY videos. Offer them opportunities that allow them to work independently and improve. Also, be honest and transparent during hiring and onboarding. Show new talent why they should work with you and most importantly, be authentic.
For instance, David Anderson, a Generation Z employee and creator of IHateWritingEssays.com chose an authoring job because it allows him to offer: invaluable writing help to students, work independently, and improve his writing skills.
#2 Understand the roles they prefer
While previous generations look for stable roles that they can fit into, Gen Wii looks for flexible roles that they can create and develop. Offer opportunities that allow innovation, flexibility, and improvement to attract employees from this generation.
#3 Speak their language
Digital natives respond better to targeted and personalized messages. This means that using ads and email marketing campaigns only will not win you the best talent. Since they grew up with smartphones and information at their disposal, they are very keen on sources and bias. Therefore, they will scrutinize every job ad and apply for the jobs that offer them development.
As an employer, you must be innovative and learn to use more digital channels like Instagram and Snapchat to attract new Generation Z talent.
#4 Appeal to their entrepreneurial side
As mentioned earlier, Gen Wii is quite entrepreneurial due to competition with their peers and the need to achieve status and recognition. When seeking new talent, give a clear cut career path to show this generation that the job is stable. Also, where possible, provide continuous feedback to their questions.
#5 Use tech-savvy language
Generation Z actively looks for jobs on digital platforms. They were born in a completely digital world, and they take in huge amounts of information instantly. To attract the best from this generation, you have to speak to them in a tech-savvy language during various discussions on social media. Also, you have to show that your organization gives employees the opportunity to innovate and grow in a tech-savvy way.
With the tips discussed above, you can be assured that you will get the cream of the crop when it comes to recruiting Generation Z. do not forget to be creative when advertising new positions, to attract their attention in a short time and motivate them to apply for the job.
About the Author
Carol Duke is very keen on teaching students new, effective ways of learning. When not freelancing and blogging on education-related matters, Carol enjoys traveling. She takes immense pleasure of visiting new countries.
