Faster hiring and no discrimination: Generations sound off on job hunting in Czechia

A labor market survey has found that one-third of jobseekers in Czechia – many of which are the young Generation Z and Millennials – dropped out of the job-application process due to poor communication from employers and unfavorable work conditions. 

Staffing agency Grafton Recruitment conducted a generational survey that explored the challenges faced by different age groups during job searches. Younger applicants expressed concerns about lengthy selection processes, while older applicants highlighted age discrimination. Findings underscore the need for employers to adapt their approach to accommodate the diverse needs of job seekers.

According to the survey, people from Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) and Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) are more likely to exit the selection process during applications prematurely. The primary reason cited by all generations for dropping out was dissatisfaction with the job conditions. 

For Generation Z, it is related to a discrepancy between the advertised and actual job content and workload. Millennials and Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) expressed disappointment with financial offers that did not align with the initial advertisement.

Communication emerged as a crucial area for improvement in the selection process, as reported by candidates across all age groups. Job seekers from all generations emphasized the need for faster and more informative communication from potential employers, along with increased honesty, transparency, and feedback provision.

Furthermore, younger applicants expressed a desire for a shorter overall recruitment process. Despite the accelerated adoption of online interviews during the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in time savings, the selection process remained lengthy, averaging three weeks for worker positions and often exceeding two months for managerial roles. Delays and prolonged feedback waiting times frequently led candidates to accept alternative offers or lose interest.

The survey also highlighted age discrimination concerns among older Generation X and Boomer (born between 1955 and 1964) applicants. Discrimination was ranked as the fifth-largest concern for Generation X, while Boomers ranked it as their top concern. 

With demographic trends indicating an increase in older employees and the ongoing need for an available workforce, the survey suggests that employers should recognize the value of experienced and loyal workers and provide them with more opportunities, including part-time positions.

Overall, the survey underscores the importance of addressing job conditions, improving communication throughout the selection process, shortening recruitment timelines, and combatting age discrimination to enhance the overall job-seeking experience for all generations.