UC Davis Aggies are (mostly) Gen Z
Most UC Davis students belong to Generation Z (born 1997-2012), which is the most diverse and multicultural of any U.S. generation in history. When recruiting this generation, consider the following:
- Gen Z values independence, entrepreneurship, and a spirit of ingenuity (Glass Door, 2019). Let potential recruits know how your organization promotes flexibility, innovation and self-direction in work.
- Career growth opportunities, trust in senior leadership, and a supportive workplace that promotes authenticity are among the top factors Gen Zers use to evaluate potential employers (Fast Company, 2019). You can demonstrate via job descriptions, interview processes, social media and other online forums that you value these things, too.
- Gen Z are more likely to apply to jobs at diverse companies and even more so if they see diversity within a company's leadership (Handshake, 2021). You can highlight the cultural and structural efforts being made to support growth in this area. Applicants will be attracted to this investment in diversity.
- Gen Z is 100% digitally native. They are the first generation of job seekers born in the age of smartphones and AI digital assistants, and they are used to information moving fast (Entrepreneur, 2019). Recruitment strategy that incorporates social media, video meetings and messaging apps can help you keep up with Gen Z’s digital point of view.