Recruiting Across The Generations

My grandmother turned 98 last month. She lives on the other coast so we only get to visit a couple times per year. But, I cherish our get togethers because over large glasses of pinot grigio, she always asks me, "How are you able to successfully speak with so many different kinds of people?"

It's an excellent question! Here's the short answer, my blog answer. I truly ENJOY being a recruiter, especially being a recruiter who's working with the 20-somethings & the 70-somethings! As a Gen Xer and right smack in the middle, I pride myself on my ability to chat with folks up and down the 4 workforce generations. Maybe it's because I have a 98-year old grandmother who loves to tell me stories about what happened in 1930's. Maybe it's because I'm fascinated by these Gen Zers who are so focused on equality & mental stability in the workplace. It's probably all that and more.

My buddy, Trish says one of my super powers (core competencies) is my ability to connect with people at their level. Not ALL people. I'm not omnipotent. However, I make a real effort, irrespective of age, tenure in the workforce or education, to really connect with people. I try to be understanding, empathic, sympathetic and to give people the respect they deserve. It's a skill that's innate & but also learned.

I recently read an article about the challenges of generational recruiting. The author said one of their challenges is getting boomers off the phone while trying to get Gen Z'ers on the phone! LOL Apparently Gen Z would rather text then have a phone conversation. Makes sense. I grew up yakking on a beige kitchen telephone with a long ass chord where as Gen Z has grown up with Apple 14 iPhones.

My point, in dealing with the multi-generational workforce, I believe it's important to really understand the candidate. I ask a lot of questions. My "phone screens" are more conversational than not. Lots of open ended questions so I can really get to know someone because at the end of the day, I want you to trust me as your recruiting partner.

Happy job hunting!