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Embracing Gen Z

Change is constant, and today’s new graduates bring fresh ideas, technical skills, and unique perspectives that can elevate any organisation. Discover why welcoming this emerging talent could be the key to future success. The one thing you can guarantee in life is change, and as we adjust to an ever evolving job market, there’s an emerging gem waiting to be discovered - having graduated into the workforce over the last five years, they bring a wave of innovative ideas, technical skills, and unique perspectives that can significantly elevate your organisation.. With Gen-Z expected to account for over 25% of the workforce by 2025, we thought we would share some reasons why you should not only consider bringing them into your business but welcome them with open arms!

A generation of digital natives Browsing on the web was something they learnt in primary school. Gen Z is the first generation to have never known life without a mobile phone. Suffice it to say they’re reasonably comfy with digital tools and platforms and might even be able to upskill your wider team. Their comfort with social media means they can intuitively enhance your organisation’s digital presence, creating authentic engagement on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn, which helps position your brand as relevant and forward-thinking in the digital landscape. Their familiarity with emerging tech tools, from project management apps to collaborative software, can lead to higher productivity and efficiency for your entire team.

Highly engaged in social initiatives This generation care deeply about social justice and environmental issues. They’re drawn to companies that prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. A Deloitte report showed that 75% of Gen Z consider a company’s community engagement and societal impact when applying for jobs. By bringing them into the fold, they will be your biggest advocate, helping to promote your company’s values, enhancing your reputation and attracting customers who prioritise corporate responsibility. This can also strengthen your market positioning as Gen Z employees can drive initiatives that foster corporate responsibility, which resonates with socially conscious consumers and partners.

Encourage a culture of inclusivity They’re the most racially and ethnically diverse generation yet, and they truly value inclusivity. 83% of Gen Z believes a diverse workplace is key to success. By embracing their inclusivity mindset, you can foster a workplace that welcomes diverse viewpoints and innovative solutions, promoting a culture of belonging that is likely to improve employee morale and productivity.

A drive to learn and contribute Recent graduates are all about growth potential, they are highly motivated by learning opportunities. This mindset fosters a culture of continuous improvement, leading to happier employees and overall better retention. Their curiosity and adaptability mean they are quick to embrace change and seek out new, efficient ways of working. For employers, this translates to a cost-effective talent investment that delivers innovation and drives future growth within your organisation.

So how do you attract Gen-Zers to your organisation? Here are 3 top insights from the
Deloitte 2024 Survey.

56% of Gen Z prefers working for companies that prioritise mental health and well-being 86% say having a sense of purpose in their work is important to their overall job satisfaction When seeking a new employer, a quarter of Gen Z have already conducted research on the organisation’s environmental impact and policies before accepting a job from them, and another third plan to do so in the future Highlighting your organisation’s purpose, practices, and policies throughout the recruitment process and in your online presence will inspire Gen Z candidates to apply for your roles.

Need us to do the leg work for you? At SJS, we champion student employment and we’re passionate about connecting employers with talented graduates. We know where to find graduates with the skills and education you need, setting you both up for long-term success. With SJS Recruit, you’re not just hiring a graduate; you’re future proofing your business.