1 in 6 companies in the US hesitate to hire Gen-Z freshers: Here’s why

Gen Z—those born between the late 1990s and early 2010s—has stormed into the modern workplace, armed with a digital-first approach, outspoken attitudes, and strong social ideals. But the buzz around hiring this generation often shifts to frustration for many employers who struggle to keep up with their unconventional work style and expectations.
The reality is stark. While companies are initially drawn to Gen Z’s fresh perspectives, the honeymoon phase is short-lived. A study by Intelligent.com reveals that 60% of businesses in the US have had to fire at least one Gen Z hire soon after onboarding, and a staggering three quarter of companies report that only a few of their Gen Z recruits have lived up to expectations.
Recruiters are divided in their opinion about the Gen Z workforce. Only 25% of US recruiters are eager to hire

Gen Z freshers

, while 17% express hesitation or outright reluctance. Surprisingly, this isn’t just about outdated thinking, it’s the reflection of a deep disconnect between Gen Z’s approach and traditional workplace norms. For instance, feedback—seen by older generations as essential for growth—often lands as criticism for Gen Z.
Adjusting hiring practices to match this generational shift has been a significant hurdle for hiring managers. The Chief Education and Career Development Advisor at Intelligent stresses looking beyond experience to focus on adaptability and potential. Yet, 21% of managers report that Gen Z’s lack of preparedness for real-world demands remains a persistent barrier.

The survey, conducted in August 2024, gathered responses from 966 business leaders involved in hiring processes in their companies. Participants were selected based on criteria such as being over 25 years old, having a household income above 75,000 dollars, holding senior roles like C-level executives or HR managers, working at companies with more than 10 employees, and having at least a college-level education.

Why are employers reluctant to hire Gen Z freshers?
Employers’ views of the Gen Z workforce heavily impact their hiring choices, frequently resulting in hesitation to onboard fresh talent. According to the Intelligent.com survey, here is what the US employers perceive about Gen Z newcomers in the workplace.
Lack of Motivation or Initiative
45% of employers report that Gen Z hires often lack drive, affecting productivity.
Lack of Professionalism
According to 40% of employers, Gen Z’s workplace demeanor doesn’t always align with professional standards.
Sense of Entitlement
65% of employers feel that Gen Z employees show entitlement, which can affect team dynamics.
Easily Offended
More than half (55%) say Gen Z doesn’t respond well to constructive criticism, which impacts their growth and adaptability.
Poor Work Ethic
50% of employers question Gen Z’s dedication to the job.
Difficulty Responding to Feedback
Around 45% find that Gen Z struggles to take feedback constructively.
Unprepared for Workforce Realities
40% of employers believe Gen Z lacks readiness for the demands of full-time work.
Employers’ reluctance to hire Gen Z freshers in the US stems from a combination of perceived shortcomings in motivation, professionalism, and work ethic. With concerns over entitlement, difficulty handling feedback, and a lack of preparedness for the demands of the workforce, many employers hesitate to fully embrace this generation. While Gen Z brings fresh perspectives, these concerns highlight the challenges of bridging the gap between their expectations and traditional workplace standards.

Tips for Gen Z freshers

For Gen Z to succeed in the workplace, improving on key areas such as motivation, professionalism, feedback response, work ethic, and preparedness is essential.
Motivation/Initiative: Take ownership of your work. Set clear, achievable goals and demonstrate your commitment by proactively seeking solutions to problems. Show enthusiasm for new projects, and don’t wait for instructions—take the initiative to innovate and improve processes.
Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanor at all times. Be punctual, dress appropriately, and communicate respectfully. Building strong relationships with colleagues through active listening and demonstrating reliability will foster trust and respect.
Acceptance/Response to Feedback: Embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth, not as criticism. Listen actively, ask for clarification when needed, and apply the feedback to improve. Developing emotional resilience to handle constructive criticism with a positive mindset will help in your professional development.
Work Ethic: Stay dedicated and focused on your tasks, even during challenging times. Prioritize quality over quantity, manage your time effectively, and avoid procrastination. Consistency is key to proving your commitment to the job.
Preparedness for Workforce Realities: Understand that the professional world has its own set of expectations. Be adaptable, learn continuously, and develop problem-solving skills. Equip yourself with the right tools and knowledge to meet the demands of your role, and always be open to learning from your experiences.
By addressing these areas, Gen Z can bridge the gap between expectations and reality, establishing a strong foundation for success.