9 out of 10 companies say Gen Z needs ‘etiquette training’
More than 60% of respondents complained that younger employees are 'entitled' and extremely touchy
An eye-opening survey by Intelligent.com conducted among 966 business leaders confirms how recruiters are avoiding Gen Z employees. In fact, the report found that one in six companies contemplate not hiring a recent graduate, and nearly half feel Gen Z needs "etiquette training."
Why are recruiters unsure about Gen Z?
The survey observed that a majority (94%) of companies had hired a recent college graduate, but only a few were proud of their decision. While 25% admitted that Gen Z hires performed well, more than half (62%) said they were satisfied with a few, but why the inhibition towards the younger generation? Although recruiters have different reasons to justify their stance, a majority cited Gen Z's lack of motivation/initiative (50%), professionalism (46%), and poor organizational (approx. 44%) and communication skills (39%). Additionally, 34% of recruiters also questioned their problem-solving abilities, and 38% blamed Gen Z for their inability to respond to feedback.
They are a 'bad cultural fit'
Many respondents expressed discontent over Gen Z's struggle to work in a team, and some even agreed that they are a "bad cultural fit." PIP, or the Performance Review Plan, is very common with Gen Zs. In fact, 79% of companies have had at least one underperforming hire put on PIP, and 60% were ultimately fired. Recruiters also expressed concerns regarding Gen Z's behavior. More than 60% of respondents complained that younger employees are "entitled" and extremely touchy.
Likewise, 21% of hiring managers said recent college graduates often fail to keep up with the workload. Talking about professionalism, nearly 20% respondents admitted that their Gen Z employees arrive late to the office, and 19% said they don't dress appropriately. "Around 17% believe they are often too difficult to manage, and 15% report they often hand in assignments late," the survey added.
'Behavior training' made mandatory
The frustration has grown so much over the years that 46% of recruiters said college graduates need etiquette training before entering the corporate world. As of 2024, more than half (54%) of companies reported offering such training, and an almost equal share (48%) had made it mandatory for new hires. "24% specifically require it for all Gen Z hires, and 16% mandate it for everyone at the company," the report noted.
When asked what Gen Zs should work on to be more preferred in the workplace, 57% suggested they exhibit motivation and initiative. Similarly, 56% said they need to adopt a positive attitude at work. "Additionally, 54% are more inclined to hire a candidate who demonstrates a strong work ethic, and 53% value adaptability. Being open to feedback (50%) and punctual and reliable (49%) are also important factors," the survey said.
The public disagrees
The survey was also shared by Vice on Facebook, and reacting to it, David M. Wirth commented, "I don't blame them at all. If their wages aren't adequate to cover the cost of living, they have a legitimate reason to leave. If there are no jobs for them that pay enough to cover the cost of living, they have a legitimate reason to be angry." Similarly, Carol Calhoun said, "Like every new batch of college graduates throughout history? My generation was called slackers, and companies were complaining the same. The kids will figure it out and then whine about a subsequent generation."
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