Why Should Employers Invest in the Development of Young Workers?

The workforce is quickly filling out with Gen Z workers. With it being estimated that 20% of the workforce in 2020 were Gen Z – and predicted that by 2030 they will make up a third of the workforce – now is the time for employers to be investing in the learning and development of young employees in order to reap the many benefits.

Gen Z are shaking things up for employers. With their passion for inclusion, their demand for sustainability, and their generation being the most diverse to date, it’s no wonder that the world of work has felt the quake of their arrival. With a penchant for pioneering new ways of working – paired with their social media savvy to get trends like ‘quiet quitting’ and ‘loud quitting’ going viral – it’s important for employers to ensure they are optimizing their young talent by focusing on their developmental opportunities. And there are several compelling reasons why doing so is a smart business move:

• Drivers of Innovation – young professionals bring a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table. Their familiarity with the latest technologies and trends allows them to approach problems creatively and innovatively, and so by nurturing this talent, companies can stay ahead of the curve and continuously reinvent themselves to meet market demands.
• Sustainable Talent Pipeline – investing in the development of young talent ensures a steady pipeline of skilled employees who are well-prepared to take on future leadership roles. By taking this proactive approach to talent management, employers will be mitigating the risk of skill shortages and leadership gaps that can ultimately hinder business growth. By providing continuous learning opportunities and career development paths, companies can retain top talent and reduce turnover rates, saving on recruitment and training costs in the long run.
• Enhancing Engagement and Loyalty – 87% of undergrads say learning and development (L&D) opportunities are essential when evaluating a job opportunity. As the appetite for L&D is clearly present, it makes sense to assume that when employers nourish this appetite, they will receive an engaged and loyal workforce in response. After all, when employees feel valued and see a clear path for advancement, why wouldn’t they want to remain working with that company?
• Foster a Culture of Improvement – a focus on developing young talent promotes a culture of continuous improvement. When employees are encouraged to learn and grow, it fosters an environment where feedback is valued, and everyone strives to be better. This culture not only benefits individual employees but also drives the overall success of the organization. Therefore, companies that embrace continuous improvement are better equipped to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.

Investing in the development of young talent is more than just a trend; it is a strategic business move that yields long-term benefits. By prioritizing the growth and development of young professionals, companies can ensure their continued success and adaptability in an ever-changing business world.

To discuss how we can help bolster your L&D strategies, please get in touch with us today!