Who is the Gen Z Professional?
Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z is the first generation of true digital natives. Positioned between Millennials and Generation Alpha, they are frequently characterized as a highly inclusive and socially conscious group. Currently making up more than a third of the global population, they are on track to become the most populous generation on the planet.
If your recruitment agency or internal team is not yet planning for this shift, now is the time to start. According to research by Fiverr, Gen Z’s top priorities when seeking career opportunities are flexible working hours (44%), the ability to build their skills (34%), and a friendly working culture (35%).
Prioritising Workplace Flexibility for a Better Work-Life Balance
Workplace flexibility is no longer a luxury; for many job seekers, it is a prerequisite. Beyond remote working, this encompasses flexitime, part-time roles, and annualized hours. For 44% of Gen Z, flexibility is the primary factor in achieving a healthy work-life balance.
Data from TalentLMS indicates that 74% of Gen Zers desire fully remote or hybrid options, while 81% value flexibility in both when and where they work. With the Flexible Working Bill set to allow employees to request these options from day one, implementing a robust flexible working strategy is an absolute necessity to remain competitive and attract the best talent in financial services recruitment.
Investment in Training and Meaningful Career Progression
While professional development is important across all demographics, it has become a “deal breaker” for Gen Z. A study by Workplace Intelligence and Amazon found that 74% of Gen Z and Millennial workers are considering quitting within the next year due to a lack of development opportunities.
LinkedIn reports that 30% of Gen Z employees actively seek to learn new skills in their roles. Specifically, TalentLMS found that training for leadership and managerial positions is most sought after (49%), followed closely by soft skills training (48%). Offering these career support pathways is vital for retention.
Fostering a Positive and Inclusive Workplace Culture
A supportive environment is essential for Gen Z, with 35% prioritizing a friendly cultureThis includes a strong focus on wellbeing; 82% of Gen Z workers want mental health days, and half desire mental health training. As noted by the Harvard Business Review, wellness is becoming a primary metric for understanding employee satisfaction.
Furthermore, diversity and inclusion are non-negotiable. 83% of Gen Z candidates state that a firm’s commitment to DE&I is a deciding factor when choosing an employer. They want to be agents of change, with 34% believing they can positively influence their organization through DE&I initiatives.
Promoting Sustainability and Ethical Values
Climate change remains a top three concern for Gen Z. Research from Deloitte shows that 39% of Gen Z respondents have rejected job offers from employers whose values do not align with their own regarding the environment. Whether removing single-use plastics or running sustainability workshops, showing a commitment to an eco-friendly future is a key differentiator in talent recruitment.
Innovating with Technology and Digital Communication
As digital natives, 70% of Gen Z would leave a role for a business with superior technology. They embrace the future; 68% welcome the use of AI and emerging tech in the workplace.
Communication styles must also evolve. Gen Z often prefers TikTok or Instagram over traditional search engines for information. To successfully reach this audience, your recruitment company may need to expand its digital arsenal to include these social platforms.
Expert Guidance for Your Hiring Needs
If you are looking to hire, our specialist consultants at Oliver James provide expert advice across:
- Accountancy, Finance and Audit
- Actuarial
- Risk and Compliance
- Technology
- Transformation and Change Management
- Underwriting, Broking and Claims
Visit our Client Solutions page to learn more about our Permanent, Contract, and Executive Search services.
