Understanding how to attract and retain Gen Z Talent

By 2030, Gen Z will make up 58% of the UK workforce.

I took part in a key panel discussion at Tribe Global's annual meeting in London representing Gen X, focusing on how to better engage both Gen Y and Gen Z employees. It was an opportunity for me to share valuable insights into what younger generations are looking for in the workplace:

• Resilience and mentorship: Gen Z values Gen X for their resilience in facing work challenges and seeks mentorship to build their confidence.
• Fearless optimism: Gen Z admires Gen X’s fearless approach to navigating uncertain futures.

I was also able to emphasise that to attract and retain Gen Z talent, employers need to provide clarity on key issues, including:

• Work-life balance: Clear policies around family balance, hybrid working, and flexibility.
• Career progression: Gen Z expects swift career and salary progression.
• Wellbeing focus: Prioritizing employee wellbeing is non-negotiable for this generation.
• Alignment with global issues: Gen Z wants employers to address political and global conflicts meaningfully in the workplace.
• Effective line management: Employees need great managers who provide feedback and support career development.

Quick wins to attract talent

One of the key discussions during the meeting was how companies can quickly and effectively attract the best talent, especially from younger generations. I was able to highlight some proven quick wins that companies can implement:

• Publish competitive salaries: Transparency about pay is essential.
• Showcase your benefits: Be open about the perks and advantages you offer employees.
• Flexible working options: Clearly communicate the flexibility your workplace offers.
• Highlight opportunities for growth: Employees want to know how they can progress within your company.
• Define your culture: Be explicit about the work environment and culture they can expect.
• Showcase inspiring work: Highlight the meaningful projects you’ve delivered to motivate candidates.

These tips align perfectly with TrunkBBI’s own approach to building a dynamic and engaged workforce. They’re one of the reasons why we were recently ranked in  Campaign Magazine’s Best Places to Work 2024.

All insights came from a Tribe Global discussion led by Nick Mann with Jen Webb (TrunkBBI), Laken Wright (Tribe Fiction) & Lucy French (Freedman International) and from JourneyHR with guest speakers Sue Shaw & Aliya Vigor-Robertson on How to Attract New Talent: Navigating the Changing Workforce.

By Jennifer Webb, Director of Strategy at TrunkBBI and Board Director at Tribe Global