Why the newest generation in the workforce needs a different approach and how Westray Recruitment Group helps employers get it right.
Generation Z is no longer the workforce of tomorrow. They are already shaping the workplace with fresh ideas, digital confidence and strong expectations about what good employers should offer. Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z bring energy and ambition but they also know what they want from a workplace. If employers do not adapt, they risk missing out on a generation with huge long-term potential.
Drawing on insights from our MultiGen Playbook which is based on 60 interviews across Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X and Baby Boomers this blog explains how to attract Gen Z talent and how Westray supports employers in doing this effectively.
1. Build Clear Pathways and Show How They Can Grow
More than 53% of Gen Z said training and progression opportunities are missing from their current workplace.
Gen Z want clarity. They want to understand:
- How they can progress
- How quickly they can grow
- What support they will receive
Many link their identity to their role and the organisation they represent. They are naturally drawn to employers who invest in personal development.
What employers can do:
- Create structured progression plans
- Communicate training routes during recruitment
- Hold regular development check-ins
- Show examples of internal success stories
- Better pay elsewhere and feeling disrespected are the most common reasons Gen Z leave their roles so clarity and fairness are vital.
2. Make Competitive Pay a Priority
Salary matters to every generation but it is the number one reason Gen Z stay in a role. One participant stated: “Having bills to pay influences me to stay in my role.” Young professionals face rising living costs and want to work for organisations that acknowledge this with fair pay.
What employers can do:
- Review pay regularly
- Offer clear pay progression
- Communicate bonuses and overtime early
- Be transparent about pay reviews
3. Build a Respectful Culture with Strong Communication
- Gen Z value regular and honest communication.
- 40% want a mental health checkpoint with HR
- They prefer face-to-face feedback
- They become disengaged when managers micromanage or show a lack of respect
- This generation performs best when they feel supported and trusted.
What employers can do:
- Schedule consistent one-to-ones
- Build psychologically safe teams
- Train managers to communicate clearly
- Give autonomy and avoid micromanagement
4. Promote Purposeful and Collaborative Work
- More than 70% of Gen Z prefer team-based working
- They also want roles that feel meaningful and socially positive.
What employers can do:
- Emphasise collaboration when advertising roles
- Build team-based projects
- Highlight community or social impact initiatives
- Celebrate team achievements
5. Combine Human Learning with Digital Convenience
- Although Gen Z grew up with technology, 80% prefer in-person workshops over online learning.
- They want hands-on training that feels engaging and practical.
What employers can do:
- Provide interactive workshops
- Blend online resources with real-world sessions
- Encourage mentoring from experienced staff
- Focus training on practical skill-building
6. Be Open About Technology and Future Skills
AI is both exciting and concerning for Gen Z. They see the benefits but also worry about job security.
What employers can do:
- Provide training in AI and new tech
- Reassure staff by explaining how roles will evolve
- Offer opportunities to upskill
- Frame technology as a tool that supports their work
7. Support Work-Life Balance and Keep Commutes Short
Gen Z prefer structured schedules such as 8am to 4pm or 9am to 5pm. They also want shorter commutes with 60% preferring under 30 minutes.
What employers can do:
- Promote hybrid options where possible
- Consider transport links when hiring for onsite roles
- Support work-life balance through predictable hours
How to Attract Talent from Other Working Generations
Westray combines data from our MultiGen Playbook with broader insight into modern candidate behaviour, including the findings shared in;
Why Partner with Westray Recruitment Group
The insights in this blog come directly from Westray’s research with real workers across multiple industries. This approach helps employers understand not only how to hire Gen Z but how to retain them.
Westray supports employers with:
- Recruitment strategies backed by real data
- Employer brand guidance tailored to younger talent
- Job design that appeals to Gen Z priorities
- Advice on culture and retention
- Access to motivated and work-ready Gen Z talent pools
Westray Recruitment Group helps you build a workforce that performs well today and continues to grow tomorrow.
Shape the workforce of tomorrow with Westray.
- info@westray.co.uk
- 0191 492 6622
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