By 2030, over one billion Generation Z members will join the workforce.
Born between 1997 and 2012, they represent the largest generation in history.
To create a sustainable future, businesses and governments must collaborate to upskill these young workers, focusing on developing economies and marginalized groups.
Research from the World Economic Forum says three bold strategies can help pave the way:
- Revising talent assessment criteria
- Embracing global hiring
- Addressing the artificial intelligence (AI) divide
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Adapting Talent Assessment for Tomorrow
The research shows traditional hiring methods often rely on automated systems, evaluating candidates on work experience, education, and connections.
This approach disadvantages young job seekers, 63% of whom lack higher education or access to robust professional networks.
Key challenges include:
- Experience Catch-22 – Candidates need experience to get hired but can’t gain it without a job.
- Rigid Hiring Standards – Many industries faced mismatched talent needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For example, while healthcare required more workers, the hospitality sector saw mass layoffs despite overlapping skill sets like empathy and adaptability.
Shifting to skills-based hiring can help future-proof workforces.
Programs like the World Economic Forum’s Reskilling Revolution and Accenture’s removal of degree requirements for half its roles exemplify how skills-focused strategies deliver results.
Hiring Beyond Borders: A Global Talent Solution
Talent shortages plague the global North, where aging populations strain labor markets.
By 2050, there will be 56 inactive or retired people aged 50+ for every 100 workers in OECD countries.
Conversely, the global South is witnessing a surge of young workers, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Key statistics:
- Talent Gaps – An estimated $8.5 trillion in potential revenues could be lost due to workforce shortages.
- Youth Employment – For every 11 new workers in Africa, only three jobs are created. Remote hiring offers a win-win solution, enabling companies to tap into untapped global talent.
The pandemic demonstrated the feasibility of virtual teams, with over 35% of US workers adopting remote practices.
Bridging the AI Divide: Opportunities for All
AI is reshaping the job market, with nearly 70 million new roles expected by 2027.
However, the digital divide remains a significant barrier:
- Connectivity Challenges – Only 24% of Africa has internet access, leaving billions disconnected.
- AI Literacy – While 58% of young people in the US have explored tools like ChatGPT, access remains unequal worldwide.
Initiatives like Giga Global aim to bring every school online by 2030, while programs such as Goodwall and Microsoft’s GenAI for Youth equip young workers with AI skills.
These efforts are critical for ensuring equitable access to AI-driven opportunities.
Expert Analysis
Alex Paterson, CEO of WhatJobs.com, said:
“To build a future-ready workforce, businesses must embrace skills-based hiring, leverage global talent, and close the AI divide.
“At WhatJobs, we prioritize innovation, AI-driven recruitment, and a decentralized approach to ensure opportunities reach every corner of the world.”
Shaping a Workforce for the Future
Generation Z’s entry into the global workforce offers a unique chance to rethink how we connect talent with opportunity.
By embracing skills-based hiring, tapping into global talent, and closing the AI divide, businesses and governments can build a resilient, inclusive workforce.
The future of work belongs to those who prepare today. With bold steps and collaboration, we can create a world where the next generation thrives.
