Generation Z is made up of those born between 1997 and 2012, meaning that many of them are at or nearing working age. As this up-and-coming generation considers career options, they’re showing a remarkable shift from those who came before them. Well aware of the high cost of four-year colleges and wary of taking on student debt, many members of Generation Z are foregoing the traditional path in favor of entering skilled trades and industrial jobs.
For employers, this shift is certainly welcome. A skilled labor shortage has hampered many industries over the past decade. This could be mitigated by more young people deciding to pursue industrial jobs. To truly make change, however, employers must consider how to best appeal to Gen Z workers. How can you best reach out to the next generation and make your workplace one they’ll be excited to enter?
While previous generations may have had to undergo training to learn rapidly changing technological skills, Gen Z workers often have those skills well in hand already. They grew up using the Internet and applications like Excel and Powerpoint. They’re also unintimidated by the idea of acquiring new, specific skills that your industry might require. When hiring for a highly technical position, it may be worth considering a younger worker, even one who might need some training initially. They may pick up the necessary skills more quickly than you think.
Because of their ease with technology, Gen Z workers are also accustomed to the flexibility that it offers. Particularly during the pandemic, technology offered workers the ability to fulfill their jobs remotely. While many industrial jobs require in-person work, a flexible schedule can help attract and retain younger workers. If your company allows employees to choose their own shifts, emphasize this in the job listing. If not, it may be something that management should consider.
Finally, just as some jobs must be done in-person, consider that recruiting can happen that way too. The younger end of Gen Z is still in high school, and juniors and seniors in particular will be weighing their options when it comes to higher education and entering the workforce. At the same time, Gen Z often harbors misconceptions about what industrial jobs entail, especially the skills required and the salary they can expect. Offer to give a presentation at the local high school about your company and your industry. Come prepared with informational flyers and be prepared to stick around afterwards to answer questions–you may generate quite a bit of interest.
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No matter the age of the workers you’re recruiting, Wood Staffing is here to help. Contact us anytime and we’ll match you with workers who best fit your company’s needs.