Your Job Ads Aren't Working For Gen Z (and What to Do About It)

Your job ads are up. You're ready to hire. But where are all the Gen Z applicants?

They're out there - millions of them, in fact. They're tech-savvy, driven, and ready to make a difference. But they're not responding to your traditional hiring tactics.

Why? Because you're not speaking their language.

You're still stuck in the old-school world of generic job descriptions and empty promises of "career growth." Meanwhile, Gen Z is looking for something more: meaningful work, flexible arrangements, and a company culture that aligns with their values.

It's time to ditch the ditch the generic, old-school approach and embrace what actually matters to Gen Z.

Beyond Buzzwords: What Gen Z Really Wants

Forget the clichés about bean bags, ping-pong tables and free snacks. Gen Z is looking for more than just perks. They want:

• Fair Compensation (RM3,000 and above in Malaysia): Let’s be real - living costs are rising, and they know their worth. Don’t insult them with lowball offers.
  

• Real Opportunities for Growth: They're ambitious and eager to learn. Show them a clear path for advancement, not just a dead-end job.

• Work-Life Balance that Actually Exists: Flexibility, mental health support, and a company culture that respects their time are non-negotiables.

How To Make Your Job Ads Irresistible

1. Be Transparent About Salary

Gen Z values transparency. Hiding the salary range in your job ad is like trying to sell a car without mentioning the price - it just looks "sus" (suspicious).

Do your research, be upfront about compensation, and build trust from the start.

Pro Tip: Use tools like Glassdoor and industry reports to determine competitive salary ranges.

2. Showcase Growth, Don’t Just Talk About It

Vague promises of “growth opportunities” won’t cut it. Gen Z wants to see proof that you’re invested in their development.

Here's how to show, not tell:

• Highlight real-life career paths: Share stories of young employees who’ve progressed within your company.

• Detail your training and development programs: What specific skills will they gain? What certifications can they earn?

• Define clear expectations and pathways for advancement: Show them what success looks like in the role and beyond.

3. Embrace Flexibility (and Watch Productivity Soar)

Gen Z is all about work-life integration. They value flexibility, remote work options, and a company culture that prioritizes their well-being.

Here’s what you can offer:

• Flexible work hours: Give them the freedom to manage their time and personal commitments.

• Hybrid or remote work options: Show them you trust them to work effectively from anywhere.

• Comprehensive wellness programs: Invest in their mental and physical health with benefits like gym memberships, mental health resources, and wellness activities.

The Bottom Line

To attract this generation, you need to get inside their heads: Understand their values, meet their (very real) expectations, and create a workplace where they can actually thrive.

Ready to connect with top Gen Z talent?

Kabel is a job-talent matching platform that helps you find the right Gen Z talent quickly and efficiently. Our AI-powered platform connects you with top Gen Z candidates who are the right fit for your company - in terms of skills, motivation, and cultural fit.

Experience the future of recruitment here.