How Junior Achievement is Helping Gen Z Prepare for the Workforce
Gen Z’s Workforce Challenges: Not Quite Ready, But Full of Potential
As Generation Z, defined as individuals aged 18 to 25, enters the workforce, both opportunities and challenges arise. Born into a world shaped by technology, social media, and economic uncertainty, Gen Z is the most tech-savvy and open-minded generation to date. Yet, despite their digital fluency, they face hurdles in areas critical to workplace success—particularly soft skills like face-to-face communication, professionalism, and patience.
According to a recent study commissioned by Junior Achievement and conducted by HRO Today, over 61% of senior HR leaders believe that today’s 18-25-year-olds are less prepared for the demands of work compared to previous generations. This perception points to significant gaps in work readiness, particularly in communication and interpersonal skills.
Why the Disconnect?
Gen Z’s upbringing in a hyper-connected, tech-driven world has shaped their strengths and weaknesses. They excel in navigating digital platforms, with 89% of HR leaders acknowledging their tech-savviness as a key strength. Their inclusivity and open-mindedness are also standout traits, reflecting a generation that values diversity and social justice. However, these strengths come with drawbacks. The same technology that connects them to the world often inhibits their face-to-face communication skills and breeds impatience, with 75% of HR leaders citing poor communication abilities as a major weakness.
Recruitment and Retention: The Biggest Hurdles
While recruiting this generation has become easier with the widespread use of job boards, social media, and referral programs, the challenges don’t end there. Compensation expectations are higher among Gen Z, and so is their desire for a workplace aligned with their values. Retention also proves difficult, as many young professionals seek purpose and work-life balance, often opting out of traditional 9-to-5 jobs in favor of more flexible, hybrid roles. This demand for flexibility stems from the COVID-19 pandemic, which normalized remote work.
Bridging the Skills Gap: The Role of Coaching and Mentorship
Despite these challenges, there is a path forward. Junior Achievement and HRO Today’s study highlights the importance of coaching and mentorship as essential tools for helping Gen Z succeed in the workplace. HR leaders have expressed a strong interest in programs that use existing employees as mentors, which can provide the much-needed guidance and training that Gen Z lacks in areas like communication and professionalism.
Organizations that implement coaching programs have a higher likelihood of hiring and retaining young professionals. In fact, over 77% of HR leaders are more inclined to hire a candidate who has been coached by a current employee, underscoring the value of mentorship in today’s workforce.
How Junior Achievement Is Making a Difference
At Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts, we understand the unique challenges facing Gen Z and are committed to preparing them for the workforce through our educational programs. By focusing on work readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship, we empower young people with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the 21st-century job market. Our programs offer hands-on experience, mentorship, and coaching opportunities that help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace expectations.
While Gen Z may not yet be fully prepared for the demands of today’s workforce, with the right support and guidance, they have the potential to be a driving force for positive change in the future of work. Junior Achievement is proud to be part of that journey, helping young professionals realize their full potential.
To view the full report, click here to download the PDF.