Conference & Meetings World Issue 124 | Page 13

Recruitment

education , to know that their employer supports their growth so that they can eventually take on more responsibilities .”
Flexibility Gen Z also have a heightened emphasis on flexible working , for a unique reason . “ For the majority of Gen Z workers , they spent their final years at school or university virtually ,” Davis says , noting that this has become a comfortable norm for them .
Cherono adds that Gen Z value work-life balance highly , so flexible work is a green flag to applicants . “ Some people have turned down high-salary jobs because there was no option to work from home . Young people prioritise remote or hybrid job opportunities because flexible working conditions offer us autonomy to perform to our highest potential .”
An added benefit for Smith is that hybrid and remote workplaces provide the ultimate flexibility for a young person , improving staff morale : “ If something comes up , like a health or family emergency , or even just a lot of laundry to catch up on , flexibility helps .” Smith also notes that remote work allows people of all ages to experience travel and offers flexibility to start families more easily .
Values Gen Z are known for their activism , and values are as important when applying for roles . Davis has seen that businesses that invest in values are resonating with Gen Z : “ Money is still a motivator , but Gen Z would much rather be working a role where they feel they are making a positive contribution to the world .”
Both Cherono and Smith agree with
“ Gen Z wants to further their education , to know that their employer supports their growth ”
this wholeheartedly : “ Gen Zs are selective on where to invest energy and effort and tend to focus on where there is more reward and value ,” says Cherono . Due to their life-long experience online , Gen Z pays particular attention to an organisations ’ commitment to diversity , equity , and inclusion , and mental health policies : “ We want to join a work culture that aligns with our purpose , values , and is sensitive to societal issues .”
Smith provides insight into how Gen Z educate themselves on a business ’ brand values : “ Gen Z gets their first impressions digitally and likes to know about what they ’ re signing up for . We want to see diverse faces in our workplace , sustainable , and responsible practices . If we don ’ t feel we share equal values with a company , we won ’ t feel like we belong there .”
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