As June comes to a close, I was thinking about this year’s new graduating class. They will by and large be the new hires by companies this summer and more with starting dates in the fall. Plus many of these new graduates are having a difficult time finding a position at a company.
Let’s begin with this definition in mind – Generation Z aka Gen Z
Is the demographic group born between 1997 and 2012 according to Pew Research. In 2025 this places their ages to be between 13 and 28 years old ( + / – a year ). Today my interest is in the hiring companies and their view of these new graduates and Gen Z new hires.
The top line feedback is these companies are concerned about the readiness and skills of this year’s new college grads and new hires from Gen Z.
Top Three Key Concerns With New Graduates
1. Poor Work Ethic and Motivation
A high percentage of managers feel the new graduates lack a strong work ethic, with examples stated from a lack of initiative, not taking or accepting responsibility and a lack of motivation across the board.
2. Insufficient Skills
Employers continue to state colleges are not preparing students for the demands of the modern workplace. They note new graduates are lacking essential soft skills, such as communication, adaptability, teamwork, time management and a variety of certain technical skills.
3. Lack of Workplace Preparedness
At least half of the hiring managers shared that recent graduates are unprepared for the workplace and are difficult to manage. Constant displays such as excessive phone use, unprofessional behavior, easily offended and not welcome to feedback.
Potential Solutions For Each Leg Of The Triangle
+ Employers – create more robust onboarding programs, bring in professional trainers to conduct certain success oriented workshops, have skills based trainings for new hires specific to their organization.
+ Colleges and Universities – emphasize and prioritize practical skills-based learning. Work closer with companies and those who are hiring new graduates to fully understand their needs and expectations regarding new hires.
+ New Graduates – developing soft skills has to be a priority, seek internships that will better prepare you for work after graduation. Seek feedback often and look into other ways to obtain professional development if not given at your school.
(largely based upon AI responses to my inquiries)
A closing message to those recent graduates still looking for a job – take note of the views of the potential hiring companies.
Are you able to describe and make your case that you have what the others are lacking?
Wenkroy International LLC is a Professional Advisory company with a main purpose of helping entrepreneurs and business people create the strategy, the plan and the steps necessary to achieve that person’s vision for their business and often their life, while navigating the obstacles which may be blocking them from reaching their goals. The process may involve one on one coaching, advising, laser focus days, personal growth workshops and more. The methods utilized are determined together. The results and value positively impact individuals, teams, divisions and across entire companies. People are now able to focus on what matters most to them, because, they have clarity on where they are heading.
As always share the information in this article with people you know.
