Pay transparency and better job descriptions among Gen Z’s top preferences, study says

Regarding job application processes, Gen Z has shown some distinct preferences and trends. One notable feature is the emphasis on company values and culture. Gen Z prioritizes organizations that share their values and are committed to social and environmental responsibility.

To attract this generation, open communication and authentic employer branding are required. Furthermore, Gen Z values work-life balance and flexibility and prefers remote or hybrid work arrangements. They also prefer companies that follow better compensation management practices, value continuous learning and career advancement, and provide opportunities for growth and skill development.

Alongside, Gen Z has a strong affinity for technology and expects a smooth and efficient application process, from user-friendly online portals to virtual interviews. Overall, understanding and adapting to these preferences can help employers attract and retain top Gen Z talent. But according to a recent report, pay transparency is the factor that is found to be most preferred by Gen Z in current times. 

According to a report released by Symplicity on May 24, Generation Z workers appear to value transparency across multiple aspects of the job application process, particularly when it comes to salary and job responsibilities. 

Pay transparency and equity were ranked as the most important diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) effort among nine categories in a survey of 3,700 US college students, with 87% saying it is important or very important.

According to the survey, listing a salary range is also important. Approximately 53% of respondents said they would be discouraged from applying for a job if there was no salary range specified.

According to the survey, clearer, more specific job descriptions could also help. For example, when beginning the job search process, approximately 59% of students expressed concern about having the necessary qualifications for the types of jobs they desired. Too many unrealistic requirements would turn off 65% of job seekers.

This was especially true for women. Approximately 63% of women and 52% of men expressed concern about having the necessary qualifications. 

“The survey results suggest that employers should reconsider revising their job descriptions to make them more realistic and transparent,” Symplicity told in a statement.

According to a recent report by ResumeLab, the views of Gen Z job seekers appear to mirror broader trends among workers of all ages, with a majority now saying they’re unlikely to apply for a job without a salary range. Pay transparency remains a top priority, especially now that several state and local governments have taken steps to require pay disclosure.

Employers should focus on specifics and tighten their salary ranges for positions as part of this, according to a recommendation by Indeed. Salary ranges have widened in recent years, especially in light of pay disclosure requirements, so tightening them could improve transparency and attract workers.