Support required for young workers

Published date02 June 2023
Publication titleOamaru Mail
But in the era of “quiet quitting” and a generational shift in attitudes toward work/life balance, is it possible to bridge the gap between young workers and employers

Absolutely, though it does take a willingness by employers both to understand the mindset of the young workers they are looking to recruit and to provide the support required for young workers to succeed in their workplace.

Many young workers get caught out by “they don’t know what they don’t know”. For example:

The process of applying for jobs can be demotivating for young people who do not understand what employers are looking for.

Employers get frustrated that young people present poorly and that the recruitment process is costly.

Employers may desire a level of experience and skills for entry-level jobs that may be unrealistic for young applicants.

“Soft skills” may mean different things to an employer than to a young person (if they even know at all what “soft skills” are)!

Young people often struggle with the unfamiliar processes of the workplace, which frustrates employers who see workplace culture as the norm.

Differences in expectations and how these are communicated can impede success once in the workplace. Young people do not understand progression opportunities – which can demotivate them – while employers are waiting to see motivation before they discuss progression and development.

Young people often need support to balance their home and workplace responsibilities.

Young people increasingly have different ideas about “loyalty” and “going above and beyond” for an employer. They will fulfil the strict letter of their job responsibilities and expect to be compensated for “above and beyond” work, unlike prior generations.

Employment expectations and ambitions of young...

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