6 Tips for Gen Z Job Seekers – From Real Employers

As a Gen Z job seeker, you’ve probably realized how tumultuous the job market has become. If you want to find the right job, it’s important to be proactive and not give up, even when it feels challenging. It’s easy to be discouraged at times during the job search, especially when you see the competition, face rejection, or don’t get any responses to your application. Don’t lose heart – there are steps you can take to help you land your first job. 

Tips for Your Entry-Level Job Search 

Are you ready to enter the workforce? Here are six entry-level job search tips straight from real employers who responded to iHire’s Gen Z report survey that can help you as a Gen Z job seeker. 

1. Be Realistic

“Start from the bottom in a career path you are interested in. You will be promoted if and when you show great personality traits among talent and problem-solving.”

You’re just now entering the workforce, so you can’t expect to snag a job that is suited for a seasoned professional. While the salary and benefits of these jobs are appealing, you need to be realistic in your job search. Don’t aim for positions that require a master’s or 10 years of relevant experience and expect an employer to show interest. Instead, start at the bottom and work your way up. 

Entry-level positions usually require much less experience and some don’t require a degree, so if you have one, that already sets you above some of your competition. It’s OK to take a lesser-paying position – especially if the company has a great workplace culture – because there will always be opportunities for growth and promotions. 

2. Communicate Effectively

“Communicate with potential employers if you’re not interested anymore and can’t make it to interview. Don’t just not show or not respond!”

No one likes to be ghosted. Just like you wouldn’t want to be left hanging if an employer decided to cancel your interview for whatever reason, your employer also doesn’t want to be stood up if you decide to do the same. 

If you’re not interested in the job anymore or something comes up that prevents you from attending the interview, make sure you let the potential employer know. It can feel intimidating reaching out to cancel an interview, but the potential employer will appreciate the heads up so that you’re not wasting their time with a no-show. 

Even if it’s just a quick email or text, let them know. 

3. Experiment and Learn

“Be open to learning new technologies, exploring different industries, and adapting to evolving workplace dynamics.”

No one expects you to know everything from the get-go. While yes, it’s important that you have most of the requested skills on the job description, it’s OK to not have them all. That’s what job training is for, which is also why you must be open to learning and experimenting. 

If you see a job description that lists five required skills or requires knowledge about certain tools or software and you only possess a few of those skills, take the initiative and learn.

Yes, you could learn on the job, but why wait? Start learning on your own. Many people are self-taught, and with the internet, you have access to both free and paid resources that can teach you practically anything you need. 

4. Put in the Work

“Be ready to put in the work and not value work/life balance so much that you reduce your work schedule to the point that it’s a turnoff to employers.”

According to iHire’s report, Gen Z desires a good work/life balance. Who doesn’t? Flexibility is important for most people. It allows you to spend time on things that matter to you, whether that be family, friends, or even hobbies. It’s also good for your mental health to have some flexibility. 

Many employers now recognize this. More have started allowing remote or hybrid work, and some even provide their employees with extra time off. But if you’re requesting too much flexibility, it can deter employers from wanting to hire you.

Once you prove your worth and that you are a responsible worker who has no problem getting their work done on time, then you can start asking for more flexible arrangements. 

5. Show Your Passion & Work Ethic

“Show your passion and interest in the career opportunity. Demonstrate how you can add immediate value to the business and illustrate who you are as a person and your work ethic.”

Employers want to know that they’re hiring the best person for the job. One way to show them this is by revealing your passion. Your resume is a good stepping stone for showing who you are as a person and demonstrating your work ethic. Make sure you include a summary at the start of your resume. Include a cover letter, too. Highlight your strengths and skills. And when it comes time for the interview, let your employer know how you tackle any challenges that come your way. 

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6. Start Networking

“Make sure your networking skills are sharp and take advantage of any and all opportunities to get yourself in front of people that can help you.”

Many employees take networking for granted, but it’s one of the best ways to get ahead. Networking lets you meet new people and sell yourself and your skills. To build your professional network from scratch, you can get started networking through social media websites like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also take it a step further and attend networking events in person. Bring along business cards with your name and contact information or even resumes to hand out. Sometimes it’s all about meeting the right people who can open doors to new opportunities or provide valuable advice and mentorship. 

Get Ready to Enter the Workforce

If you follow this career advice for young adults, you should be ready to enter the job market and show potential employers what you’re all about. But if you’re still feeling unsure, iHire has plenty of career resources to help Gen Z job seekers like you find the perfect fit. Follow the advice here and use iHire’s resources to your advantage, and you’ll be all set to tackle the job search like a pro.