Dive Brief:
- Gen Z college grads are ready to work abroad, according to a Cite Research study. Undaunted by terrorism, 81% of the newest generation to enter the workforce would accept a job overseas, the study found.
- Even though 65% of respondents said they believe terrorism is on the rise, only 13% of respondents said terrorism would keep them from working overseas. In fact, 75% are more likely to work for a company that offers opportunities to work abroad, the group reports.
- Instead of career advancement or financial gain, respondents said they want to work abroad to experience new cultures (77%), for personal growth (71%) and for the chance to travel (69%).They're also willing to make sacrifices to work abroad, such as postponing home ownership (66%), having children (60%) and marriage (44%).
Dive Insight:
Gen Z is not only unafraid of working abroad but actively interested in doing so — good news for companies that do business with, or have operations in, other countries.
But before organizations can think about sending Gen Zers abroad, strategies for recruiting, hiring and retaining them must be in place. The candidate experience is critical to Gen Z, according to recruiters. Members of this generation reportedly crave transparency; are unimpressed with perks like free coffee; and have realistic expectations, but aren't afraid to move on if they find a job unsatisfying.
In this job-hunters' market, employers will need to ensure their branding and offerings appeals to the latest pool of candidates to join the workforce. Recruiters are also likely to find success by meeting Gen Z where they are.