Hiring Gen Z: Rethinking Job Interviews in Hospitality and Tourism Industry

This study aims to examine Gen Z’s expectations during job interviews in the hospitality & tourism (H&T) industry. The data was collected through the qualitative method using semi-structured interviews with 14 participants who had fresh experience of recruitment processes. The findings indicated that when evaluating prospective employers, applicants focused on practicalities and personal attributes such as the ability to adapt or willingness to work in a team. Along with chances for professional growth and hands-on learning, economic factors like housing, pay, and benefits were consistently found to be crucial. This study shows how Gen Z approaches employment with pragmatic yet aspirational expectations, shaped by both financial security and career growth, in contrast to earlier studies that interviewed department managers or supervisors and directly considered generation Z in recruitment practices. Understanding and meeting Gen Z's expectations is becoming a crucial priority for companies looking to draw in and keep young talent as their presence in the workforce increases.