Employers are increasingly firing Gen Z graduates just months after hiring them due to concerns about their lack of motivation, professionalism, and communication skills. A recent survey revealed that 60% of bosses have let go of some Gen Z employees, with over half of hiring managers believing that new graduates are unprepared for the demands of the workplace. These challenges have led to frustration among companies, many of whom are considering avoiding hiring fresh graduates altogether in this next upcoming year
One of the key factors driving this dissatisfaction is the absence of a “can-do” attitude among many young workers. Employers are looking for proactive graduates who take initiative and display a positive attitude. Leaders emphasize that success in the workplace, especially for young professionals, often depends more on attitude than formal qualifications. CEOs like Amazon’s Andy Jassy and Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg stress that a positive mindset and willingness to take on tasks, even outside of one’s responsibilities, can significantly boost a career more than a college degree or technical skills.
To help improve employability, experts recommend that Gen Z graduates focus on adopting a proactive approach to their work. This includes observing colleagues to understand company culture, taking initiative in projects, asking thoughtful questions, and seeking feedback for personal growth. Employers are looking for dependability, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic—qualities that demonstrate a “can-do” mentality and are essential for long-term success in the workforce.
How to Achieve a “Can-Do” Attitude
TRACOM Group highlights several key skills that contribute to fostering a positive attitude in the workplace:
- Self-Awareness: Understanding your own emotions and how they affect your behavior can help you maintain a positive attitude. Self-awareness enables you to manage your reactions to challenges more effectively and avoid negative emotional responses.
- Self-Management: The ability to regulate your emotions and behavior is essential for staying positive, even in stressful situations. Self-management involves staying calm, focused, and motivated, which helps create a productive and positive work environment.
- Empathy: Understanding and being sensitive to the feelings of others fosters positive relationships. Empathy helps you navigate social situations more smoothly, enhancing cooperation and mutual respect in the workplace.
- Social Awareness: Being aware of the dynamics and emotions in a group can help you contribute positively to team interactions. This skill helps you recognize how your actions and words influence others, allowing you to engage in ways that promote positivity.
- Relationship Management: Building and maintaining positive relationships through effective communication and conflict resolution is critical. This skill involves understanding others’ perspectives and collaborating to achieve common goals, promoting a more positive and supportive work culture.
By focusing on these skills, individuals can cultivate a mindset that helps them maintain a positive attitude and contribute to a constructive work environment.
