From Zoom classes to the workforce: Analyzing pandemic-era graduates' professional skill sets

Imagine a world-class orchestra. Each musician plays beautifully, yet they can’t harmonize because they’ve failed to sync in advance what song they’d play. Or picture a top-tier restaurant. Chefs are culinary virtuosos but have trouble collaborating to create a memorable dish because they haven’t agreed on who would do the preparation, the cooking, and the presentation.

Similarly, many young professionals possess impressive technical skills. However, they lack effective communication and collaboration skills due to the pandemic’s impact.

Yet, communication and collaboration skills are only an example of the skills gaps Gen Zers face. What’s more interesting is that young hires themselves pinpoint areas for improvement. Recent graduates named soft skills as their second most preferred type of training (48%), right after leadership and manager training (47%).

Why Gen Zers lack specific skills

Current employers are noticing this deficiency in soft skills among young hires. This happens due to:

• Digital communication dominance: Gen Zers heavily rely on text-based, digital communication.
• Limited face-to-face interaction: In-person interactions were reduced due to remote work and online training.
• Informal language habits: Younger employees bring casual online language (i.e., emojis and abbreviations) into professional contexts.
• Lack of experience: Inexperienced employees might struggle with office communication norms and etiquette.
• Multi-generational workforce: Employers notice younger employees have different communication expectations and preferences to older colleagues.

4 essential skills to focus on when training Gen Z

Employers are investing in training programs to address this issue. Training programs focus on skills like communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving. Through workshops and mentorship, employers help graduates enhance their soft skills. As a result, both employees and organizations benefit from strong soft skills in the post-pandemic world.

Let’s delve into the specific skills that play a pivotal role in shaping Gen Zer’s success and impact in the workplace.

1. Effective communication

Young employees view communication as the cornerstone of any successful collaboration. Be it articulating ideas, active listening, or conveying complex concepts. Strong communication skills are essential, and Gen Zers know it well. They recognize that being able to communicate effectively fosters better relationships with colleagues. Plus, it ensures their ideas are heard and valued.

2. Teamwork

Gen Z holds teamwork skills in high regard. They are aware that in this interconnected and globalized workforce no one can work in isolation. Collaborating seamlessly with diverse teams, contributing positively, and navigating interpersonal dynamics are crucial. Teamwork also enables Gen Z to leverage collective knowledge and expertise to achieve common goals.

3. Adaptability

Young employees have grown up in a fast-paced and ever-changing world. They realize that adaptability is essential to survive in a dynamic job market. Being able to pivot, learn new skills, and thrive in changing environments is not just a preference, it’s a necessity. Adaptability empowers young employees to stay relevant and resilient throughout their careers.

4. Problem-solving

Problem-solving and adaptability are two skills that go hand-in-hand. Gen Z understands that being able to analyze challenges, identify solutions, and make informed decisions is crucial. Why is this so important? In today’s dynamic job market, it’s essential to overcome obstacles and achieve objectives with mastery. These problem-solving skills increase people’s efficiency and contribute to innovative solutions within the organization.

Gen Z wants to focus on these soft skills so they can be well-rounded and effective professionals. They also recognize these skills are relevant today but will continue to be invaluable in the future.

How employers can train Gen Z at work

Employers should adopt a proactive approach to effectively address Gen Z’s training needs and preferences. But why?

By actively involving young employees in the decision-making process, employers can tailor training programs to meet their expectations more precisely.

Here are some steps employers should consider to create training that resonates with Gen Z needs:

• Run surveys and receive feedback: The foundation of any successful training program begins with understanding what Gen Zers want. Employers should ask young employees about their training preferences and needs through surveys and open conversations.
• Offer mobile-friendly training: Deliver training content through smartphones or mobile devices, aligning with Gen Z’s digital proficiency. This approach ensures that training is accessible and convenient for the most tech-savvy generation.
• Conduct shorter training sessions: Gen Z tends to prefer more focused learning experiences. Break down training sessions into shorter, more manageable segments. Opt for microlearning training bits to keep young employees engaged and boost their knowledge retention.
• Make training immersive: Incorporate elements into training like gamification and interactive simulations. These methods provide an engaging and hands-on approach to learning. This also aligns with this generation’s desire for interactive content.
• Use video integrations: Video components in training materials appeal to Gen Z’s preference for multimedia content and boost the learning experience. Videos convey information effectively and cater to Gen Z’s familiarity with visual and interactive media.

The value in companies supporting Gen Z as they begin their careers

Gen Z employees are on the hunt for more than just a job—they’re looking for employers who nurture their growth and success. Organizations that recognize this desire and offer opportunities for continuous learning aren’t just investing in skill development. They’re sowing the seeds of loyalty and commitment.

Read more: Remote work tech continues to evolve, but tech companies push RTO mandates

For companies, this is a win-win situation. Providing training and development initiatives empowers Gen Zers to acquire new skills. But not only that. It creates a deeper bond and sense of belonging to young employees. This translates into better retention rates, cost savings, and other headaches associated with frequent turnover.

And it doesn’t stop there. Embracing learning opportunities fuels a culture of engagement and innovation. Employees become more engaged when they know their organization is dedicated to their growth. In return, they contribute to increased levels of productivity and better business outcomes.

Soft skills for success: Crafting a workplace of infinite potential

In the grand scheme of things, it’s all about creating a workplace where everyone thrives. A place where Gen Z and future generations want to build their careers.

It’s about cultivating an environment that’s not just about the present, but also about potential. About creating a dynamic workplace where continuous learning, collaboration, and innovation reign supreme.

Christina Gialleli, Director of People Ops, Epignosis