Knobull Research Finds Gen Z Employment Trends

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Dec. 22, 2023 - PRLog -- Lynn Bentley, President of Knobull reports, "According to an Adobe study, 83% of students and recent college alumni believes that mentorship is crucial for their professional development. Glassdoor's 2024 Workplace Trends report predicts that this generation will overtake boomers in full-time employment by 2024."

Sensible demand

According to Knobull research, they are over twice as likely to strive for CEO-level titles when compared to generations prior. As the working world changes rapidly, this group sees the value of continuous learning with edX courses as a means of landing jobs, furthering their careers.

Supply challenges

Despite this level of interest, only 52% of the 1,000 respondents in the Adobe survey reported success in securing a mentor. The greatest challenge to forging a fruitful relationship is the ever-evolving workplace.

Forty-three percent of company leaders rank relationship building as the greatest challenge in hybrid and remote work. As of 2023, the BLS found that around 27% of full-time employees work from home, and almost 60% of U.S. companies have adopted hybrid work models.

Reverse mentoring and relationships

To be clear, Gen Zers aren't just looking for cheerleaders—they're looking for folks who are truly interested in growing their success, which goes beyond their career goals. Over 50% of the generation's professionals are likely to prioritize health and well-being over employment.

Mentors vs. sponsors

McKinsey has been utilizing both mentors and sponsors for their team, and it's been more than successful. The concept of a more self-authored approach to personal development has really resonated with folks.

Mentoring from a distance

According to Bentley, there are four core steps to guiding them from behind the screen.

Establish ground rules to clarify expectations and norms. Have regular check-ins to build and maintain rapport. Offer resources that are accessible and available to promote development.

In this last step, mentees are encouraged to focus on personal aspirations, track progress, and receive targeted feedback.

"This generation just wants to be understood and listened to. Coming without judgment is the best way to communicate with them," says Bentley. "Criticism should be constructive."