...
By Alice Gibbs
Senior Reporter
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
A recent survey by Intelligent.com has revealed that a growing number of employers are frustrated with Gen Z's lack of readiness for the workforce.
The study, which surveyed 966 business leaders involved in hiring decisions, revealed that approximately 75 percent of companies found some or all of the recent Gen Z college graduates—aged 27 and under—to be "unsatisfactory" workers.
Six in 10 companies reported firing Gen Z hires due to performance issues, with business leaders pointing to a lack of motivation, inadequate communication skills and unprofessional behavior. Moreover, 1 in 7 companies said they might refrain from hiring recent college grads next year, underscoring the rising concern about this generation's preparedness for the workforce.
Read More on Work
Many hiring managers are frustrated by recent grads' inability to meet even basic workplace expectations. According to the survey, about half of employers cited a lack of initiative and poor communication and professionalism as key reasons these hires didn't work out.
One in five hiring managers went further, reporting that Gen Z employees often fail to manage workloads, arrive late to work or exhibit unprofessional behavior like using inappropriate language and missing deadlines.
"Gen Z is struggling to fit into the workforce due to a variety of factors," Michelle Enjoli, a career and leadership speaker and coach told Newsweek. "Gen Z are digital nomads with lots of information at their disposal. They expect a level of transparency and connection in communication that often goes unmet by their leaders."
...
Enjoli also believes a lack of career development leaves Gen Z feeling unmotivated at work, perhaps adding to a sense of disengagement that could leave a bitter taste in the mouth of managers. "Gen Z wants to do work they feel serves a purpose. They seek a vision they believe in that justifies their work and want to feel included and inspired," she added.
"Entitled" and "Easily Offended"
About 65 percent of those surveyed described Gen Z workers as "entitled," while 63 percent said they are "easily offended." These perceptions are further fueling employers' concerns about the work ethic and adaptability of this new workforce.
Another poll from June found that Gen Z is "the worst generation" to work with. The survey of 1,500 U.S. adults found that 40 percent said Gen Z were the most difficult generation to work with, a sentiment even shared by Gen Z themselves.
Despite these challenges, experts like Huy Nguyen, chief education and career development adviser at Intelligent.com, urge businesses not to give up on Gen Z entirely.
"While Gen Z workers may have theoretical knowledge from college, they often lack the real-world experience and soft skills required in today's workplace," Nguyen said. "However, with the right support and training, they can become valuable assets to their employers."
While 84 percent of companies still plan to hire recent grads, Gen Z has built a less-than-favorable reputation in the workplace with reports of wanting to work less, breaking company rule and being most likely to quit their jobs.
However, unemployment among the younger generation is becoming a problem, and Nguyen suggested that companies have a responsibility to better prepare and mentor recent graduates, implementing clear onboarding processes and offering guidance through mentorship programs.
Despite a negative reputation at work, Gen Z is changing the workplace for the better, too. The generation is bringing a new stand for diversity, equality and inclusion; a knowledge of technology; and a demand for more work-life balance.
Update 9/18/2024 10:42 a.m. ET: This article has been updated with comment from Michelle Enjoli.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines