How to reach Gen Z and who belongs to Gen Z's?
Employers are increasingly faced with the new generation of workers. But who is this new generation of GenZ? After Millennials, there is now a new large group of workers. As an employer, how do you take this into account and how do you reach this GenZ target group for your job postings?
Who is the GenZ generation?
The GenZ generation was born between 1997 and 2012. About 3 million of the Dutch population belongs to this group. This generation has its own unique characteristics and values that may influence their motivation when looking for work. This is because the Gen Z generation reacts differently to job openings. In this blog, you will find out what motivates this generation during the job search and what you can do as an employer to make it as attractive as possible.
What drives Gen Z when looking for work and job openings?
In order to know what inspires Gen Z to apply for and find work, it is important to look at motivation during the job search and job openings. When looking for work, there are a variety of factors that play a role in motivation, including:
Flexibility: The ability to work remotely are important to Gen Z. They like to have the freedom to be able to adjust their work hours. The generation prefers not to be stuck with the traditional 9 to 5 work schedule. Gen Z likes to have a good work-life balance.
Opportunity for growth: The Gen Z generation is eager to learn and continue to develop. Employers that provide the opportunity to grow into a higher position or specialization will get their interest faster. Gen Z also finds it attractive when employers invest in their growth and development through training programs, for example.
Diversity & Inclusion: Gen Z finds it important that companies address diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The generation has grown up in an increasingly diverse world. They want to feel safe and welcome. So they value organizations that have a policy on Diversity and Inclusion.
Social responsibility & Sustainability: Gen Z values social issues, such as equality or climate change. The generation wants to make a positive impact on the planet and/or society. To feel that their contribution matters and can improve the world.
Getting Gen Z's attention in job postings
Employers and recruiters can consider several options to attract the attention of Gen Z, such as:
- If your organization offers flexible work options, such as remote work or flexible hours, state this clearly in the job posting. GenZ will be more likely to be attracted to the organization.
- In addition, GenZ will be more likely to show interest if opportunities for advancement are indicated, such as personal growth but also professional growth within the organization.
- GenZ also values diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Show that your organization promotes diversity and inclusion. For example, discuss specific steps you are taking. Let's play equal is the game to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
- Furthermore, it is essential to emphasize how the future position contributes to a positive impact on society and the community. Put your job posting on Greenjobs.nl to reach this target audience.
- Further, make use of social media. Promoting your vacancies will make it easier for your organization to connect with this generation. In fact, GenZ are active on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Communicating with Gen Z
Gen Z communicates in short, informal texts. They multitask like no other: taking notes on their tablets while simultaneously replying to messages and scrolling through documents. Raised on smartphones, they process information at lightning speed. But their attention is just as fleetingly gone again. How do you keep Gen Z captivated and communicate effectively with this generation?
Communicate in writing:
Short and powerful: Get to the point quickly. Write in active form. Make your text clear with short paragraphs and white space. Tell stories, use visuals and headings to illustrate your points.
Informal and authentic: Use informal language they understand and be honest in your communication. Let your personality shine through and don't be afraid to use humor.
Interactive and visual: Ask questions, use polls and surveys, and add images, videos and GIFs to make your content more engaging. Make use of emojis to clarify your text and make it more personal.
Mobile-friendly: Make sure your text is easy to read on smartphones and tablets. Use a large font size and avoid complex formatting.
Communicate visually:
Video: Gen Z loves video. Create short, engaging videos to get your message across. Use humor, infographics and animations to make your videos more engaging.
Images: Use catchy images and infographics to complement your text. Make sure your images are high quality and relevant to your message.
GIFs and memes: Gen Z loves humor. Use GIFs and memes to share your content and engage your audience. Make sure your GIFs and memes are relevant to your audience and don't undermine your message.
Communicate in person:
Face-to-face: Gen Z values personal interaction. Make time for face-to-face conversations, whether in the office or via video conference.
Active listening: Listen carefully to what they have to say and ask questions to show you are interested. Be empathetic and try to understand their perspective.
Be respectful: Treat them with respect and value their opinion. Avoid patronizing language or condescending behavior.
Give feedback: Give regular feedback to help them grow and develop. Be specific and constructive in your feedback.
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Long, unnecessary text: Gen z doesn't have time for pieces of text. Get to the point, avoid details and get straight to the point.
- Form language: Forget complicated sentences and vague language. Use simple, direct language that everyone understands. Avoid jargon and technical terms.
- Too much formal language: In formal settings, professionalism is okay, but don't overdo it. Use a friendly tone to build rapport.
- Unnecessary emails: Don't waste time with unnecessary emails. Be relevant, concise and include only essential information. Avoid unnecessary cc's and bcc's, and use a clear subject line.
Remember: Gen Z is diverse. Get to know your target audience and adapt your communication style to engage them authentically.
By following these tips, you can communicate effectively with Gen Z and build a strong relationship with this important generation.
In short, Gen Z is a generation with unique characteristics and values. To attract attention, it needs flexibility, diversity, opportunities for growth and development and social responsibility. By naming and using these elements, your organization can attract and retain GenZ.
Soon, Generation Alpha (born between 2010 and 2025) will also enter the workforce. Will they behave similarly to Gen Z? Greenjobs.nl certainly hopes that they will prioritize the environment just as much as Gen Z. Generation Alpha is often considered the first generation to have grown up entirely in the digital age, with access to advanced technologies and digital media from a young age. They are expected to develop unique characteristics and attitudes as a result of their digital upbringing and the rapidly changing world in which they are growing up.
In brief:
Gen Z appreciates short, informal and visual communication. Use storytelling, humor and interactive elements to hold their attention. Write mobile-friendly and avoid long, complex texts. Respectful personal communication and constructive feedback are essential. Consider their diversity and adapt your style to communicate effectively with this generation. By following these tips, you will build a strong relationship with Gen Z and prepare for the arrival of Generation Alpha.
Are you recruiting for job openings and want to reach Gen Z? Post your vacancy on Greenjobs.nl! Then you will show your target audience that you are not just for-profit, but that you care about the planet and society!
Source:
- Let's play equal
- Equalture
- ChatGPT
- Intermediair
Did you find this blog helpful and interesting? Then maybe these blogs on Greenjobs.nl are a tip for you!
