Engaging and retaining Gen Z talent

GEN Z employees expect more than a salary — they want leaders who prioritise transparency, respect and real growth opportunities.

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Winning over this younger generation therefore isn’t about flashy perks or trendy office spaces; it’s about leadership that actually walks the talk.

From recognition and flexibility to open communication, here’s what six US business leaders say it takes to lead Gen Z employees in a way that actually resonates.

Regular recognition

I've seen how regular recognition can be crucial in building trust and loyalty with Gen Z employees. This generation values being acknowledged for their hard work and contributions - and when leaders show appreciation, it creates a positive work culture. We make it a point to regularly highlight the achievements of our team in meetings, through internal shout-outs or personal messages.

One approach that has worked really well for us is encouraging employees to regularly give shout-outs to each other for going above and beyond. One example is our “thankful Thursdays”, where everyone is welcome to give recognition to a peer. This creates a sense of community and helps build trust among employees.

Transparency and authenticity