What do you want in a sales job? It may not be the same things Generation Z and Millennials are looking for. As a sales recruitment agency that has seen multiple generations enter the workforce, we know one big mistake companies make is not being in tune with the types of things new generations of candidates want and expect from your organization. People from the Gen Z & Millennials cohorts now make up the largest portion of the workforce. Failure to understand what these workers want can negatively affect your ability to attract & keep talent. 

Professionals working in sales share many of the same values and preferences as professionals of similar age in other industries. According to the Deloitte Global 2022 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, these cohorts are looking for balance and opportunities to grow with their current employer. 

What Gen Z and Millennials Want In A Sales Job

Here is what the sales recruitment survey found were the top reasons people chose to work for their current employer:

1. Work/life balance: Both cohorts believe this to be the most important thing they want in a job. It was mentioned by 39% of Millennials, and 32% of Gen Z surveyed. 
2. Learning and development opportunity: 29% of both cohorts are seeking opportunities to develop their skills. 
3. High salary and financial benefits: 27% of Millennials and 24% of Gen Z desire a higher salary and benefits. 
4. Positive workplace culture: 23% of both cohorts want a sense of belonging and want to feel valued in their role. 
5. Opportunities to grow: 24% of Millennials and 23% of Gen Zers want to grow their career and take on leadership roles within the organization. 
6. Meaningful work: 26% of Millennials and 21% of Gen Z want to engage in meaningful work. 
7. Flexible work options: 21% of Millennials and 20 of Gen Z desire a flexible working model. 

Companies that can offer the above will improve their sales recruiting efforts and create a more desirable workplace for sales professionals. 

“When choosing a new employer, good work-life balance and learning and development opportunities were the top priorities. About three-quarters would prefer a hybrid or remote work situation,” says Michelle Fox on CNBC about the survey results. 

“They are also willing to turn down sales job offers that don’t align with their values. In addition, those who are satisfied with their employers’ environmental and societal impact, as well as their efforts to create an inclusive culture, are more likely to stay with their employer for five years or more,” she adds. 

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SalesForce Search is a sales recruitment agency specializing in the recruitment and placement of sales professionals across North America. Hiring salespeople is tough. Only 55% meet their quota. Our proactive approach recruits talented salespeople before they hit the market. As North America’s leading sales headhunter we recruit salespeople in every sector of the economy including, software, manufacturing, financial services and medical devices. To find your next sales rockstar, start your search here.