for Employers

Why Gen Z Isn’t Joining Your Team—and How to Fix It

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employer insights

Why Gen Z Isn’t Joining Your Team— and How to Fix It

Struggling to connect with today’s talent? Explore actionable strategies to align with Gen Z’s values, boost retention, and refine your hiring approach with exclusive insights from industry leaders and on-demand resources.

Gen Z is rewriting the rulebook on what it takes to attract and retain early-career talent. If you think a competitive salary alone will seal the deal, think again. For this generation, it’s about more than money—they’re seeking balance, purpose, and opportunities to grow. So, what are you missing?

What Gen Z Really Wants in the Workplace

Data reveals that competitive salaries (30%) and work-life integration (29%) dominate Gen Z’s priorities. But here’s the twist: perks like the ability to pursue passions (12%), comprehensive benefits (7%), and alignment with strong company values (7%) are essential, too. And while job security and collaboration each account for 6%, company reputation? It barely makes a dent at just 2%. (HubSpot, The Hustle Survey).


These preferences align with Deloitte’s 2023 Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey, which highlights their focus on flexibility, mental health, and purpose-driven work. Employers who align with these needs are better positioned to stand out in today’s competitive hiring landscape.

What’s in It for Employers?

Tapping into Gen Z’s priorities isn’t just good for employees—it’s a game-changer for your organization. Here’s why:


Retention Made Simple: Employees who feel connected to your mission and values stick around longer, saving you the headache of constant turnover.


A Culture of Innovation: Supporting employees’ passions drives creativity, leading to fresh ideas and solutions.

Employer Brand That Shines: Companies that prioritize flexibility, balance, and growth gain a reputation as desirable places to work.

4 Ways to Win Over Gen Z Talent

1. Go Beyond Paychecks: Offer competitive salaries alongside meaningful benefits like mental health support, wellness initiatives, and flexible work arrangements.


2. Prioritize Balance: It’s not just about working remotely—it’s about crafting policies that let employees truly integrate personal and professional goals.


3. Highlight Purpose

Make your mission clear and give employees opportunities to contribute to meaningful, impact-driven projects.


4. Invest in Their Growth: Give employees opportunities to develop skills, explore passions, and chart a career path that aligns with their goals.

Your Gen Z Playbook

If connecting with today’s talent feels like an uphill battle, it’s time to shift gears. Watch the on-demand webinar: Rethinking Career Prep What Gen Z Liberal Arts Grads Really Need to Succeed.


In this insightful session, Dr. Gardner breaks down actionable strategies to bridge the gap between employer expectations and Gen Z’s evolving workplace priorities. From enhancing retention to aligning organizational values with employee needs, you’ll walk away with practical tips to adapt your hiring practices and succeed with this dynamic generation.

For even deeper insights, explore the 12twenty Jobs Report. Packed with hiring data and trends, it’s your guide to navigating today’s talent market and staying ahead of the curve.

The Future of Hiring Starts Here

Gen Z knows what they want—and it’s time to listen. By prioritizing their needs, you’ll create a workplace that attracts top talent and drives innovation. Don’t let your hiring practices fall behind—start building the future of work today.