Even though senior living staffing has improved immensely since the pandemic, attracting new staff is the number one priority for many senior living communities in 2024. Where can communities find fresh talent that can grow and develop with the senior living industry? Since Generation Z will make up 30% of the total workforce by 2025, these young workers could be the answer.
Here are four strategies to attract Generation Z workers to senior living:
Keep the Recruitment Process Simple
These candidates want to feel that their time is valued during the process, and they do not want to jump through pointless hoops. The initial application steps should only take candidates a few minutes, and the next steps should be laid out with transparency. Since Generation Z grew up with technology in their hand, senior living communities must provide familiar avenues during the application process. Test run your process and ensure that it is mobile-friendly.
Highlight Flexibility
Can you showcase a flexible work schedule? It may be time to reconsider what shift requirements you have in place. If you can give these workers some say in their schedule, they’ll be more willing to join the team. Generation Z ranks work/life balance as a high priority. Even if you are recruiting for a part-time job, you will want to show these candidates that their time off the clock is respected.
Be Smart with Social Media
If your community uses social media to recruit talent, you are on the right track. However, you limit your efforts to traditional platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, you are missing access to an entire generation of young talent. Generation Z heavily favors video-based platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Yes, it seems daunting to keep up with the latest in social media. However, staying active on just one of these platforms signals to Gen Z that you are willing to adapt and can be a relatable employer. Feature current employees or residents, give a behind-the-scenes look, and showcase what a job in your community can offer.
Showcase Corporate Values
According to a recent survey, almost sixty percent of Generation Z cares about purchasing from companies that reflect their values. If a community does not already have a sustainability or corporate responsibility plan, it should consider developing one and featuring it heavily in talent acquisition efforts. Communities in the Senior Living industry can feature these company values in recruitment marketing. They can also feature specific examples through testimonials or employee video interviews for a more authentic voice.
Recruit Top Senior Living Management
No matter how great your talent acquisition plan is, young candidates want to know that they will have managers who inspire and lead. Partner with the senior living recruitment experts at Horizon Hospitality to find experienced leadership for your Senior Living community. Contact us to learn more.
