By Evan Hackel
Recruiting and hiring Millennials and members of Generation Z requires different approaches than it takes to hire members of older generations. These younger cohorts have distinct preferences and expectations when it comes to their careers. My book Ingaging Leadership: The Ultimate Edition provides effective strategies for attracting, hiring and retaining younger employees. By understanding and implementing these strategies, organizations can successfully recruit and retain top talent from these generations.
Key Strategies
Use Social Media – Members of these generations are digital natives, having grown up with the internet and social media. Popular social platforms for younger people are:
- YouTube: This platform tops the list, with roughly three-quarters of younger people using it.
- TikTok: Known for its short-form videos, TikTok is used by more than 50% of younger people.
- Snapchat: This app, popular for its disappearing messages and stories, is used by 60% of teens and about 50% of millennials.
- Instagram: With its focus on photos and videos, Instagram is also used by more than 50% of Millennials and members of Gen Z.
Highlight Your Company Values – Millennials and Gen Z place a high value on working for companies that align with their personal values and beliefs. They are more likely to be attracted to organizations that emphasize their mission, vision, and values in job postings. Highlighting your company’s commitment to social responsibility, sustainability, and diversity can make your job postings stand out. Sharing stories and examples of how your company lives its values can also be very compelling.
Offer Flexibility – Flexibility is a key factor for Millennials and Gen Z when choosing an employer. They value work-life balance and are often looking for opportunities that offer flexible working hours and remote work options. Highlighting these aspects in your job postings can make your positions more attractive. Additionally, consider offering flexible benefits packages that allow employees to choose the rewards that matter most to them.
Streamline the Process – The application process can be a major factor in whether a candidate decides to apply for a job. Make sure your application process is quick and easy to navigate. Use mobile-friendly applications and use one-click apply options. Providing clear instructions and timely communication throughout the hiring process can also improve the candidate experience. Offering same or next-day video interviews can also make you a company of choice for younger applicants.
In Conclusion
By leveraging technology, highlighting company values, and offering flexibility, you can create a recruitment strategy that appeals to Millennials and Gen Z. Streamlining the application process can further enhance your efforts. To explore more strategies for recruiting Millennials and Gen Z, explore by new book Ingaging Leadership: The Ultimate Edition.
Currently, a consultant to some of the largest franchise systems in North America. A franchise industry leader, widely published, keynote speaker, member of the New England Franchise Association Board, and Co-chair of the International Franchise Associations Knowledge Share Task Force.|A dynamic, innovative, thoughtful and inspiring leader with 30 years of experience in franchising, distributed networks and cooperatives. Successful history of: (i) turning around a $700 million distressed franchise system into a $2.0 billion revenue business in four years, (ii) reviving and re-energizing a $3.5 billion revenue franchisor and (iii) founding three franchise systems. Experienced corporate board member.
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