Episode Details

Understanding Gen Z in the Workplace starts before their first day. What do graduates wish employers knew about recruitment, support and the transition from university into working life?

In Episode 82 of Solving the People Puzzle, Dr Debbie Mtshelwane, Senior Lecturer and HR Programme Leader at North-West University, shares her perspective on the gap between academic learning and workplace expectations.

For employers thinking about how to hire Gen Z, the conversation explores what a clearer recruitment process can look like: easy-to-find vacancies, simpler applications and transparency about interview stages. The discussion also covers what Gen Z wants from employers beyond the job offer, including stability, fair pay, structured onboarding, mentorship and opportunities to grow.

We also cover:

- Improving candidate experience throughout graduate hiring.
- Why communication, curiosity and critical thinking matter alongside AI.
- How industry days, vacation work and university partnerships help students prepare.
- How graduates can demonstrate their skills through practical experience and keep learning in their first role.

What is one change employers could make to better support graduates? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Connect with Dr Debbie Mtshelwane on LinkedIn:
[https://za.linkedin.com/in/debbie-mtshelwane](https://za.linkedin.com/in/debbie-mtshelwane)

CHAPTERS

00:00 Episode highlights
00:25 Introducing Dr Debbie Mtshelwane and the university-to-work gap
02:18 Industry days and practical exposure
07:54 Keeping university curricula relevant
10:19 Communication, critical thinking and AI
16:39 What Gen Z wants from employers
22:17 Evaluating opportunities and salary expectations
24:09 Gaining experience and starting your career
29:05 How employers can work with universities
31:22 Building your graduate toolbox

#GenZ #GraduateHiring #SolvingThePeoplePuzzle

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