Gen Z is the current generation of graduates entering the workforce and the most tech-savvy generation yet. Having grown up with technology from a very young age, we are about to enter a time when skills and knowledge could be at an all-time high.
We have a new generation of young workers who bring fresh perspectives, advanced tech skills, and a desire to make a meaningful impact with their work. However, reaching this generation requires a nuanced approach. Work culture is changing, and young candidates are seeking different things in the workplace.
Bringing your talent into engineering has never been more important. With an ageing workforce, talent shortages and exciting projects across the globe in need of contractors, encouraging younger generations to join the industry is vital.
In this blog, we’ll explore how companies can engage younger generations and encourage them to enter the exciting and fulfilling engineering sectors.
Engaging Gen Z: Strategies and Tips
This generation has different expectations and values compared to millennials and Gen X. They are looking for roles that offer flexibility, a strong sense of purpose, and a supportive work environment. Traditional recruitment methods often fall short of meeting these expectations, making it essential to adopt a more targeted and strategic approach.
What can you do to make your technical roles more attractive to Gen Z? Here are some tips:
- Embrace Technology
Gen Z is the most digitally native generation to enter the workforce yet. By tapping into the same technology with AI-driven recruitment tools , such as virtual reality for workplace tours, mobile-friendly application processes, and helpful chatbots, your business can seem that much more attractive.
- Promote Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance has been a massive topic in the last couple of years, especially for Gen Z, and allowing that flexibility is vital. Offering remote work and flexible hours and reiterating your emphasis on work-life balance will show candidates you’re willing to compromise despite the demanding nature of many engineering roles. It can also be valuable to mention any wellness programmes, mental health support, and recreational fun your company provides. Showing your employees that you trust them to get the job done promotes a healthy working environment and will attract graduates to your company.
- Showcase Career Development Opportunities
In the engineering industry, there is ample opportunity for employees to take on more responsibility and progress in their careers quickly. Gen Z is an ambitious bunch, and they are ready to learn. Give them clear paths to move up, mentorship programmes, and room for constant learning, and let prospective employees know about them in your listings and interviews.
- Focus on Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are non-negotiables for Gen Z. Show prospective candidates that your company embraces these values through inclusive hiring practices, leadership that reflects the people it employs, and employee resource groups. Make sure that your office also reflects the diverse workforce you want to hire.
- Highlight Social and Environmental Responsibility
Gen Z is incredibly switched on to social and environmental issues and will consider these when looking for their next role. Show your company’s contributions to sustainability, the community, and ethical practices through your website and social media. Focusing on your corporate social responsibility (CSR) work tells candidates that you care.
- An Enjoyable Work Culture
Culture is important to Gen Z, so be sure to share it across online platforms. This could include team lunches, breakfasts provided, early finishes on Fridays, or social events. A positive and engaging work culture can significantly boost morale and attract young talent who value a balanced and enjoyable work-life experience.
How a Recruitment Specialist Can Help
As a recruitment specialist, NES Advantage has the expertise and resources to navigate these challenges effectively. Here’s how partnering with us can benefit your company:
1. Tailored Recruitment Strategies
With over 90 years of combined experience delivering workforce solutions to the global energy industry, NES Advantage has access to the best talent worldwide. We can tailor our services to your specific staffing needs, allowing you to focus on your business while we handle the recruitment process.
2. Access to Wider Talent Pools
Our expansive network and global talent pool allow us to access a wider and deeper reserve of talent. We can use university career services, professional organisations, and online forums to find the best graduate talent on offer, making sure that your job opening reaches the candidates you are looking for.
3. Expertise in Employer Branding
Gen Z cares about employer branding, especially if they seek to work for a company with a strong and positive brand profile. NES Advantage can help build your employee value proposition (EVP) and brand identity to ensure that younger candidates get the best impression of your company. Having a solid brand will drive Gen Z to want to work for you, which will also help you retain them over time.
4. Streamlined Recruitment Process
The hiring process can be daunting for the employer and candidates alike. We offer an integrated process of efficient applicant tracking systems, detailed screening, and candidate communications management to ensure a smooth and positive experience for all parties involved. Gen Z is vocal about its preference for transparent hiring processes and faster feedback, which a recruitment partner can help facilitate.
5. Cultural Fit Assessments
To ensure success in the long term, we find not just qualified candidates but also those who are a good cultural fit. We carefully assess the candidates for a job position so that when they join your company, they are not only a good match for your company's values and work culture but also happy and adaptable in the workplace, improving staff retention.
Partnering for Success
Hiring graduates is a crucial part of any organisation, and knowing what Gen Z looks for will make it easier to attract top candidates. However, partnering with a recruitment specialist can provide the expertise, resources, and strategies needed to reach and engage Gen Z talent effectively.
If you’re ready to enhance your recruitment efforts and attract the next generation of engineering talent, contact us today.
