Industry leaders unpack shocking new data revealing a 98% disconnect between what hiring managers want and what Gen Z values in the workplace. Chris Griffin and Khalil Benalioulhaj join forces with recruiting expert Jaynie Ellison to explore practical strategies for bridging this massive gap and turning Gen Z from perceived obstacle into competitive advantage.
What You’ll Learn
- The real reasons behind the 98% employer-Gen Z value disconnect
- Why Gen Z's worldview creates different workplace expectations
- Proven strategies for integrating Gen Z into experiential teams
- How remote work and mentorship can close the generational gap
- Why trade jobs offer untapped opportunities for young talent
Time Stamps
- 01:27 - Episode Intro
- 02:29 -Guest Intro
- 04:41 - The Disconnect Between Hiring Managers and Gen Z
- 08:01 Challenges and Solutions for Gen Z in the Workforce
- 13:21 -Incentives and Flexibility in Trade Jobs
- 30:45 -The Importance of In-Person Connection
- 31:36 -Remote Work and Technology's Role
- 32:55 -Evaluating and Integrating Gen Z into the Workforce
- 38:21 -Strategies for Employers to Engage Gen Z
- 44:36 -Advice for Gen Z Entering the Workforce
Snippets from the Episode
- "If you're looking at Gen Z as an obstacle, you're not gonna be in it for long. The workforce is aging out. You need the next generation."- Khalil Benalioulhaj
- "Gen Z is going to be 27% of the workforce by 2028. We're knocking on the door of 2026. This is an important conversation."- Jaynie Ellison
- "Stop measuring your employees based on inputs and start measuring based on outcomes. If you're judging them off office hours, you have a poor management system."- Khalil Benalioulhaj
- "They really want to see results. They want to see that they're progressing in their career more quickly because we don't know when things could change."- Jaynie Ellison
Key Takeaways
- 98% value disconnect exists between hiring managers and Gen Z
- COVID disrupted Gen Z's foundational workplace expectations
- Trade jobs offer six-figure opportunities with clear advancement paths
- Mentorship and structured onboarding are essential for Gen Z integration
- Flexibility doesn't always mean remote work - focus on outcomes
- Gen Z values culture, authenticity, and helping others above traditional metrics
- Clear career progression paths can extend retention beyond 13 months
Resources
More from Jaynie Ellison
More from Chris
More from Khalil
Connect With Us
Ready to future-proof your experiential business? Subscribe to Experience Builders for more strategic insights that help agency owners build bulletproof businesses.