Hospitality job postings need a fresh approach as more Gen Z candidates start applying. Here’s how to connect with them effectively.
Understanding Gen Z's Hospitality Job Search BehavioR
In this section, we’ll explore the unique traits that define Generation Z and how they influence job search behaviors.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of what drives this generation and how to align your recruitment strategies to connect with them.
Who is Generation Z?
Gen Z (born 1997–2012) is becoming a major force in the workforce. They make up 32% of the population and roughly 27% of today's workers.
As the first fully digital generation, online life shapes how they communicate, learn and make decisions. Events like the 2008 recession, social justice movements and COVID-19 also shaped their values.
[Source: Market.us Media]
What Gen Z wants
For Gen Z, flexibility is essential — 72% have left or considered leaving rigid jobs. They want schedule control and work-life balance.
Pay still matters, with 70% ranking salary as a top factor. But they also want purpose and values, not just a paycheck.
Gen Z also spends over four hours a day on social platforms. These channels shape how they discover and judge employers — making authentic content a must.
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Gen Z’s early career mindset
Gen Z enters the workforce with a flexible, forward-thinking mindset shaped by rapid change. They’re resourceful problem solvers who bring fresh, innovative ideas.
Purpose matters to them. They want work that feels meaningful and aligns with values like inclusivity, social impact and authenticity.
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Crafting Hospitality Job Postings for Gen Z Candidates
To effectively connect with Gen Z as a hospitality employer or recruiter, your job postings need to stand out.
Both content and presentation play pivotal roles in attracting this generation’s interest.
If you want to stand out and connect with Gen Z candidates, think outside the box. Here are some innovative ways to grab their attention:
- Create videos showing what a typical day looks like for employees
- Host live video Q&A events
- Let your employees take over the company’s social media for a day.
Optimizing Hospitality Job Posting Sites To Reach Gen Z
Attracting Gen Z starts with understanding how they search for jobs. They rely on a mix of digital tools and personal connections.
Referrals remain their most trusted method, with job boards close behind. Platforms like OysterLink help employers reach young talent more directly.
Source: CV Wizard
According to Yello's 2019 recruiting study, outdated application processes are a major turnoff for Gen Z-ers.
In fact, 54% of them won’t even complete a job application if the technology feels outdated.
How Referrals Win Over Gen Z in Hospitality Job Positions
Employee referrals are one of the strongest ways to reach Gen Z. They trust referrals more than any other hiring method because they feel personal and authentic.
To make referrals work, keep the program simple, clear and easy to use. Showcase your culture and growth opportunities so employees feel confident recommending your workplace.
And keep the process quick — with 60% of Gen Z expecting applications under 15 minutes, ease drives participation.
Attracting Gen Z to Latest Hospitality Job Vacancies
To answer this question, we turned to Ana-Victoria Vârlan, a 25-year-old hospitality professional currently working at Trump International Hotel and Tower in NYC.
As a Gen Z and graduate of the Hotel Management School Leeuwarden, Ana-Victoria shares valuable insights on engaging and inspiring Gen Z talent in hospitality.
For many, breaking the six-figure mark feels like an impossible dream in the restaurant and hospitality sector.
This belief is particularly common among Gen Z, who often view the industry as a temporary stop rather than a viable career.
But this couldn’t be further from the truth. The hospitality industry offers unparalleled opportunities for those willing to explore its full scope.
As Selim Soliman, Regional Vice President of Shaner Hotels, emphasizes:
With the right approach, you can showcase the hospitality industry as a space where dedication and passion lead to remarkable growth and success.
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Restaurant & Hospitality Job Platform
Looking for top paid jobs? Or Hiring for your business?
Where Values Meet Opportunity in Hospitality Job Advertisement
Your recruitment strategy should reflect Gen Z’s values and show why your workplace is a great fit. When you highlight flexibility, inclusivity and purpose, you create a place where they can thrive.
Hospitality has real growth potential — clear posts, engaging content and visible career paths help Gen Z see it. Adapting now doesn’t just fill roles; it builds a stronger, future-ready team.
Written by Lidija Misic
Lidija holds a BA in English Language and has lived in five different countries, where she has worked in various roles, including as a flight attendant, teacher, writer and recruiter. Her biggest passion is crafting great content and reading. She is particularly passionate about creating punchy copy that inspires people to make positive changes in their lives.
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