Report: How-to engage early career talent 2025

The competition for early career talent is fiercer than ever, and employers need to evolve to meet the expectations of Generation Z. By 2030, this generation will make up 30% of the workforce, and traditional recruitment methods are quickly becoming obsolete.

Many employers remain hesitant about platforms like TikTok—76% cite concerns over maintaining professionalism, while 67% struggle to measure ROI. However, new and innovative recruitment strategies are emerging, helping companies connect with Gen Z in more impactful ways.

Our latest whitepaper, The Ultimate Guide to Engaging Early Career Talent 2025, created in partnership with TMP Worldwide, explores the trends shaping the future of talent attraction. Here are some key takeaways:

Video Content is King

Short-form video continues to dominate, with formats like “day-in-the-life” clips and employee spotlights driving engagement rates of 4.6%. Video CVs and cover letters are also gaining traction, with platforms like PLOY making it easier for candidates to showcase their personalities.

Content that Converts

Today’s job seekers consume three to four pieces of content before applying, making varied and engaging pre-application materials a must. Employer branding lags behind B2C and B2B marketing by an average of three years—companies should look beyond their industry for creative inspiration. Brands like Monzo Bank and SURREAL are leading the way in innovative storytelling.

Social Media: The New Careers Fair

Platforms like PLOY, TikTok, and Instagram are critical for employer branding, with 76% of young job seekers using social media to assess company culture. The key? Blending professionalism with entertainment. Short videos under 45 seconds capture attention and build brand affinity.

Employee Voices Matter

Employee influencers are an untapped resource in talent attraction. Gen Z values authenticity, and content created by real employees helps build trust. Encouraging staff to share their experiences on social media not only boosts visibility but strengthens internal engagement.

The Rise of Interactive Recruitment

From gamified assessments to video-based applications, interactive hiring methods are reshaping the candidate experience. Expect to see more companies adopting 30-second video cover letters to add a personal touch and reduce AI-generated applications.

Visual Job Ads: A Game-Changer for D&I

Traditional text-based job ads are being replaced by visually engaging formats on platforms like PLOY and TikTok. Video-based job postings not only enhance employer branding but also help attract a broader, more diverse talent pool.

What’s Next?

As we head into 2025, employers who stick to outdated recruitment strategies risk missing out on the best and most diverse candidates. The future of early talent attraction lies in creativity, authenticity, and a digital-first mindset.

Are you ready to redefine your recruitment strategy and stand out in the evolving talent landscape?