Generation Z is the latest force to be reckoned with in the global workforce. The wave of candidates and employees following Millennials and preceding Generation Alpha, Gen Zers were born between the mid 1990s and the early 2010s. And in the next three years, they are predicted to represent 27 percent of all employed workers.

As Gen Zers storm workplaces in record numbers, you need to go above and beyond to attract, hire and retain them, especially in today’s candidate-driven marketplace.

• The good news is: More than 90 percent of Gen Zers are open to changing jobs. The challenge is: You need to cater to their unique needs and demands in order to draw them to your organization.

What Gen Zers Want

Benefits and perks are always a key factor in building your employer brand – and Gen Zers are no exception. However, many traditional benefits are not as essential as they have been to previous generations of workers. To entice Gen Z candidates to work for you, attractive offerings include:

Flexibility and Work/Life Balance

Many Gen Zers have said they would go so far as to take a pay cut if it meant they had more flexibility in terms of when and from where they worked. To reel them in, offer flexible workspaces and scheduling, as well as remote or hybrid work whenever possible.

Professional Development and Career Stability

Gen Zers have a desire to learn new things and acquire new skills. Granted, this is not unique to their demographic, but providing opportunities for career growth is a great way to attract them. They also tend to have a stronger than average need for stability, having grown up in the aftermath of 9/11, the Great Recession, and the Covid-19 pandemic – the latter turning the world on its head just as they entered the workforce.

Diversity and Inclusion

Gen Z is the most racially diverse generation in the U.S. Fifty-two percent of them are Caucasian, compared to 61 percent of Millennials. They are looking for organizations that acknowledge diversity and value inclusion for every employee.

A User-Friendly Application Process

Technology is second nature to Gen Zers. They are digital natives; they don’t want to take time to visit job fairs or apply in person. Be sure you have an easy, efficient, mobile-friendly application process and a strong careers page on your company website.

Are you feeling the pressure of competing with larger companies to offer the customized, competitive benefit packages you need to source and retain top talent, including Gen Z candidates? If so, a professional employer organization (PEO) or other HR outsource partner may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

To explore your options or learn more, contact Key HR today. We partner with leading providers to help ensure all your needs are met and your future growth strategy is rock solid. We look forward to hearing from you.