Workforce: The Next Generation

We’re on the cusp of a new generation of workers. Young people entering the workforce today are, by and large, digital natives. They’ve spent their formative years navigating COVID, and this new world of remote work is the only one they’ve ever known. Like every new generation, they’ll have different values, different expectations and different approaches to their careers. So how do you appeal to the next generation of workers?

In a tight labor market, this talent pool presents a huge opportunity for companies. But with young workers in high demand, you’ve got to stand out. Understanding what students and graduates want from their employers can give you a big leg up. So, what do young workers value? How can employers attract them? And what do they need to succeed in your workplace?

To answer these questions, we turned to Linda Johnson, director of employee relations for the Career Center at Culverhouse at the University of Alabama. Linda has been helping college students and companies connect for 15 years. She sees both perspectives. Together, we explore why young workers are a valuable resource, the most effective recruiting methods, and what you can do to help these employees succeed once they’re inside your company.

So join us as we search for the fountain of youth in a podcast for the ages!

Highlights:

• Meet Linda Johnson (1:49)
• Why investing in young talent is so important (3:11)
• Gen Z strengths (4:54)
• How U of A teaches students soft skills (5:47)
• Young workers want to add value (8:45)
• Why hybrid work appeals to graduates (9:53)
• Connecting through preferred channels (12:03)
• Successful recruiting strategies (13:10)
• Why companies are recruiting younger (16:18)
• Internships as risk mitigation (17:33)
• How to set students up for success (18:46)
• Getting started with recruitment (20:35)

Links:

• Cadence Bank Website
• Cadence Bank Twitter
• Cadence Bank LinkedIn
• Linda Johnson LinkedIn
• University of Alabama - Culverhouse College of Business
• Deloitte - Understanding Generation Z in the Workplace
• Thought Exchange - Guide to Gen Z at Work
• McKinsey - How does Gen Z see its place in the working world?
• National Association of Colleges and Employers - Best Practices for Internship Programs
• Gallup - Data on Gen Z in the Workplace

Feedback:

If you have questions about the show or topics you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producers, sheena.cochran@cadencebank.com or danielle.kernell@cadencebank.com.