Joblu recently hosted a webinar titled "Making the Cut: Gen Z’s Guide to Getting Hired & Navigating a Diverse Workplace" featuring four industry experts in DEI strategies. The webinar aimed to provide valuable insights for Gen Z job seekers on navigating the changing workplace landscape and finding a cultural fit.
How Gen Zs Adapt and Rise Above Challenges, with Darwin Rivers
“Find mentors, ask for feedback. And what I can share from my personal experience is you always have the attitude. In every application that you've been in, (Even) if you fail, you learn something.” - Darwin Rivers

Darwin Rivers, Founder and CEO of Philippine HR Group, Inc., spoke about how the workplace landscape is rapidly changing with the advent of younger generations like Millennials and Gen Zs. These groups have had to re-evaluate their career goals and expectations in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has brought to light the importance of a multi-generational workforce. Rivers suggested that employers must take note of how they can prioritize the needs and expectations of the younger workforce by understanding and embracing their unique characteristics. Companies can create a more inclusive and dynamic workplace by starting with small DEI initiatives like supporting employee mental health and providing opportunities for growth and development, among other DEI initiatives.

A Gen Z’s Guide to Finding An Inclusive Workplace, with Jeffrey Johnson
“I would recommend that you try to live by the values of your organization and of you as an individual, and then people will be attracted to that.” - Jeffrey Johnson

Jefferey Johnson, Senior VP of Human Capital Resource Management of Teleperformance Philippines, emphasized the importance of DEI in the workplace. He shared strategies for job seekers, including asking specific questions about a company's DEI initiatives, culture, and values. Johnson also highlighted that job seekers must do their own due diligence and research a company's culture before joining an organization. Lastly, he shared the following practical advice on how the younger generation can excel in a global and diverse team:

Recognize the opportunities available to you.
Actually participate, communicate, and offer program suggestions.
As no company is perfect, be ready for the "peaks and valleys" or the highs and lows.
Contribute as a solution, not a problem.
Adapt.

Why Companies Need to Do More on DEI, with Atty. Quino Reyes III
“Some laws actually require employers to have very specific policies to address these matters, whether it's on sex or gender-based discrimination, or discrimination against people living with HIV in connection with their HIV status. So, I would suggest checking if the employer has those specific policies, and as long as you can comply with them, right?” - Atty. Quino Reyes III

Atty. Quino Reyes III, Director, Legal Counsel and Corporate Secretary of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce Philippines, discussed the importance of finding the right fit between employers and employees. He emphasized that both parties should have aligned goals and values, which can benefit their relationship. Atty. Reyes further shared that both the LGBTQIA+ and Gen Z employees have a particular belief in their bargaining power and are looking for specific demands from their employers such as the following:

A non-discrimination policy
Same-sex or partner family benefits
Mental health support
Confidentiality
Freedom of gender expression

He concluded his segment by highlighting the importance of DEI initiatives in the workplace, particularly concerning the LGBTQIA+ community.

How Good Customer Service Starts with Employee Satisfaction, with Andy Sarakinis
“The reason why I go through that journey is there's so much opportunity, and it's not only (in the) BPO (industry)...Anything that you want to do, you have to go into it with the right mind. You have to go into it saying I'm gonna win. I'm gonna do my best because if I do my best I'm gonna be there.” - Andy Sarakinis

Andy Sarakinis, VP of Global Operations of Nearsol Philippines, focused on the importance of cultural fit when looking for a job. He shared his journey of starting off as an agent on the phones doing collections for American Express in the US and working his way up to management positions in the BPO industry. Sarakinis emphasized that it is not enough to simply look for a job; one must also ensure that the company's culture aligns with their own values and goals. He also encouraged participants to ask questions about the company's culture during interviews and to consider the applicant's experience when applying for jobs. He concluded his segment by providing the following tips to Gen Z job seekers:

Don't be scared to ask questions or for help. He talked about his own past mistakes and how, with the help of his mentors, he was able to grow and learn from them.
Be conscious of what you do. With social media and the prevalence of "cancel culture," actions taken online now have long-lasting repercussions.
Recognize the significance of culture fit. Look for a job where your personal and professional beliefs are shared.
Make use of the wisdom of the older generation as a guide rather than as a fixed way to do things.

Overall, the webinar provided practical advice for those seeking to succeed in the job market. The panelists highlighted the importance of DEI initiatives, cultural fit, and employee satisfaction to create a positive work environment that encourages employees to provide exceptional customer service.

Gen Zs and Millennials, who make up a significant chunk of the current workforce, must be equipped with knowledge on how to navigate the workplace and understand their rights. By embracing the unique characteristics of this younger generation, companies can also create a dynamic workplace that benefits everyone.

Read more about the event here: https://joblu.io/resources/how-gen-z-job-seekers-can-make-the-cut/