Generation Z, face to face with job market - Your strategic HR partner - Smartree
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Generation Z, face to face with job market

According to a study published earlier this year by iHire.com, which involved 1,093 Generation Z youth and 252 employers from the USA, nearly 7 out of 10 young people have an ideal job they hope to attain within the next 10 years. The majority of Generation Z youth mentioned that they have a “dream job” and want this role to provide a positive work environment, fair pay, flexibility, and autonomy. In Romania, according to the latest Smartree study, we find a positive receptiveness of the job market towards Generation Z. Only 2% of HR specialists and 7% of employees said they had avoided working with young people from this generation, demonstrating an openness to diversity and a desire to harness the potential of newcomers to the job market.

Productivity followed by benefits

Other recent studies have shown how Generation Z, raised in a flexible and digital era, views punctuality at work more relaxed, focusing instead on productivity and results. In contrast, 70% of baby boomers, used to strict rules, associate punctuality with respect and professionalism. According to the iHire study, Generation Z also expressed preferences regarding their ideal work arrangement, with the majority of respondents wanting to work in an office, not remotely. Less than 20% want a fully remote job. Another study by Benify reveals what additional desires Generation Z youth would add to their wish list beyond flexible hours, with meal provision (17%) at the top, followed by discounts on consumer products (16%), benefits that encourage work-life balance (14%), and mobility benefits (cars, bicycles, public transport) (12%).

Confronting stereotypes

31% of managers say they avoid hiring a person from Generation Z over an older person, according to ResumeBuilder. Hiring managers say that during the hiring process, Generation Z members ask for too much money (42%), lack communication skills (39%), and do not seem engaged (33%). However, Generation Z members with relevant education and work experience are more likely to be considered by hiring managers who otherwise avoid candidates from this generation.

The Smartree study shows that although the integration of the younger generation is generally successful, certain specific difficulties are still noted. HR departments, for example, seem to face some reluctance in adapting management strategies to the needs and demands of Generation Z (36%). On the other hand, not all study findings were negative. Many employers described Generation Z as tech-savvy, with analytical thinking, communication skills, and entrepreneurial spirit. Most HR specialists (44%) and employees/candidates (48%) were satisfied with how Generation Z is integrating into the professional environment, bringing a fresh perspective to teams, according to Smartree.

Personal life and work life

Another recent study concludes that even a single request via message from a direct manager after work hours could trigger a possible resignation from millennials. However, Generation Z also has a well-defined boundary between personal life and work. While it may seem a bit drastic, today’s young people are raised and encouraged to communicate freely, express their point of view, and be more confident when it comes to the importance of their private life. According to Benify, 60% of the youngest generation in the workforce say they have a good work-life balance. They can easily refuse to do favors or other small tasks if they are not part of their job description. As mentioned earlier, young people tend to prefer flexible and relaxed schedules over a 9-to-5 one.

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