Capture the Hearts and Minds of Gen Z
by recognizing their need to give back
As a recent graduate, I talk with my friends about career aspirations and future plans – a lot. What we are looking for in a company is not necessarily a large pay cheque but rather working for an organization dedicated to giving back to the community.
During my four years at the University of Guelph, I volunteered on the Relay for Life Committee. Relay for Life is a 12-hour overnight fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society where youth rally together to raise funds to fight back against this terrible, life-changing disease. Guelph is the first post-secondary school to raise over $158,000, a record-breaking accomplishment!
Events like this are great causes for companies to support and employees to rally around. There’s no better way to bring people together as a team than the opportunity to give back to the community and be a part of something bigger than a job. CSI STARS sees this first-hand with a bump over the last few years in the number of employees who donate their points to charities or non-profit organizations such as their child’s sports team. Sometimes giving is truly the most rewarding reward.
There are many Gen Zers like me who put philanthropy on the top of their preferred employer list. So, don’t wait…get your team involved in doing good and giving back today. Here are just a few ways:
- Put a team together for a local walk, run or ride
- Sponsor a charity doing great things in your community
- Sponsor a non-profit organization aligned with your industry and values (like CSI STARS did with the LLS Random Acts of Recognition campaign)
- Recognize employees need to give back in your engagement and performance programs
Supporting a community or charitable organization is a fantastic way to stand out when recruiting young people. These initiatives raise the profile of your employer brand, portraying you as a company committed to helping others – an extremely appealing option to young graduates looking for companies with this shared mindset.
Contact a CSI STARS consultant to learn how our recognition platform can help you stand out as an employer by standing up for good work and causes.
Noelle Wakeman is a recent graduate of the University of Guelph. She has a passion for reading, writing and fundraising, raising over $150,000 for cancer research through her time on University of Guelph’s Relay for Life Committee. As a new grad entering the workforce her goal is to continue to grow and find a career that makes a difference in the world through the power of written word and speech.
