For many Gen Zers, it’s their first job—and with Google searches for “first job advice” spiking by 278%, the pressure is intense. In fact, 72% of recent job applicants say the job search has harmed their mental health. Add to the mix that one in six businesses are hesitant to hire recent college graduates due to concerns over their preparedness— communication skills and professionalism—according to new research.
The study, conducted by Intelligent.com, reveals a staggering 75% of companies report that some or all of the recent college graduates hired this year were “unsatisfactory.” Over half (60%) of employers claim they have fired college graduates who were hired in 2024, with one in seven admitting they may refrain from hiring new college grads next year.
These findings indicate that hiring managers and business leaders believe Gen Z employees lack the motivation, charisma and soft skills necessary to thrive in a professional environment. Gen Z is set to make up around 27% of the workforce by 2025, according to some sources, and business leaders are suggesting that managers adjust their hiring strategies to tap into this generation's creative and flexible potential and leverage it for their competitive advantage.
My previous stories at Forbes.com also have shown that Gen Z are getting flak for their inability to collaborate and communicate, and hiring managers say Gen Zers are the worst to work with and manage. Their desire for immediate feedback and flexible work environments often clashes with traditional practices, which other research explains as Gen Zers bringing a “brat” culture—a different mindset to the workplace, challenging common stereotypes associated with their generation and remaining true to their values in both their career and learning journeys.
6 Steps For Gen Z To Succeed In Their First Job
Avery Morgan, productivity expert and Chief Communications Officer at an all-in-one website for students' needs, EduBirdie, shared with me her essential tips to help Gen Zers navigate the early stages of their careers with confidence:
- Do Become the process detective. “Fitting in starts with understanding the flow. Resist the pressure to contribute to every task or conversation. Attend key meetings, schedule weekly one-on-ones with your manager, and find a work buddy to help with adaptation. Ask a lot of questions like, ‘What do you find most challenging about how we do things?’, “What do you expect from me in the 1 quarter?’, ‘What should I never overlook in this process?’ Even if things seem odd, focus on understanding before offering input.”
- Use mirroring to build rapport. “Observe team habits and adapt. Do they prefer camera-on or off for meetings? Use emojis or keep chats formal? Respond immediately or take their time? Encourage debate or maintain harmony? Connect with people in a way that feels natural to them. It’s not about being fake, just easing into the team’s microculture before adding your own touch.”
- Track your performance from day one. “Right from the start, document every achievement, successful project, and piece of positive feedback you receive using specific metrics like increased efficiency or contributing to team goals. This detailed record helps during performance reviews and gives solid proof of your value when discussing promotions. But be objective—track your errors too. Discussing mistakes with your manager can help you avoid them in the future.”
- Don’t Don’t fall into the “newbie pass” trap. “Being new gives you a free pass for a little while, but don’t get too comfy in that zone. While asking questions is normal, ensure you’re showing initiative. Solve problems independently first, then check in for feedback. This shows you’re here to figure things out and own it.”
- Don’t force the 'cool colleague' persona. “Everyone wants to be liked, but trying too hard to be the chill, fun coworker can backfire fast. If you’re too focused on being everyone’s bestie, you might come off as not taking the job seriously. Focus on being reliable and solid. Once you’ve earned respect, the friendships will come naturally—and you won’t feel like you’re trying so hard to fit in.”
- Don’t overextend. “As a newcomer, you want to build trust and demonstrate your commitment, but overworking yourself 24/7 isn’t the way to go. A new job is stressful enough. Avoid staying late, taking on tasks you don’t fully understand without help, working on weekends, and don’t hesitate to say no or admit when you’re overwhelmed.”