Thumbtack’s recent Future of Skilled Trades Report revealed some astonishing statistics about Gen Z and the skilled trades.

• 55% of Gen Z is now considering a career in the skilled trades, up 12 points from last year. It’s a growing trend that earned them a new moniker: The Toolbelt Generation.
• 84% of Gen Z and their parents express high respect for the skilled trades.
• 67% of Gen Z say social media has increased their appreciation for the skilled trades.
• 72% of Gen Zs with traditional college degrees are considering careers in the skilled trades.

This is very good news for an industry that was facing a serious “pipeline problem” just a few years ago, seeing experienced pros retire with no pipeline of young talent to take their place. Now that has seemed to turn around. But this generation is a different breed. You may need to revise your tactics for recruiting, hiring, and retention, and more.

What does it mean for your business and how best to attract these kids? Here’s some insight into Gen Z and what they want in a workplace.

Clearly defined career paths

These young people aren’t looking to set it and forget it. They want to see opportunities for advancement in the workplaces they choose. Clear paths up the ladder, opportunities to learn and grow, and the ability to increase their skills with trainings and certifications.

Hiring tip: Emphasize the potential for them to learn and grow with your business.

Technology on the job and…

Gen Z has never known a world without the internet, smartphones, instant access to information, apps, and technology-based communication. If your business isn’t tech savvy — old computers, outdated systems, dated website — they’ll see you as a relic of the past.

Hiring tip: Make sure your website is modern and mobile friendly, and tech is part of the daily job of your pros.

…In the hiring process

Remember that stat about 67% of Gen Z getting info about the trades from social media? Gen Z’s top choices for that social media engagement are Tik Tok and You Tube. Get busy! Social media posts and videos don’t have to be anything fancy. One easy place to start: Use a smartphone to record a series of short videos (one or two minutes) of DIY tips and upload them to You Tube and Tik Tok.

Hiring tip: Make sure your hiring process and website is mobile friendly. These kids will be applying on their smartphones.

Work-life balance

These kids are hard workers, but they also value (and need) their down time. They do not want to feel like they’re toiling their lives away, and they certainly don’t want to miss out on family events because of work.

Hiring tip: Offer flexible schedules, generous PTO, and make sure they know your business prioritizes work-life balance.

Company culture

Gen Z values being part of a supportive, cohesive team and a positive work environment.

Hiring tip: Talk about your Pizza Fridays, weekly happy hours, or anything you do together as a team.

Bottom line: Gen Z’s interest in the trades is very good news for the skilled trades. It’s important for this industry to understand these young people and what they want in a workplace.