Every time there is a new generation starting in the workplace there is room for uncertainty. The workforce is an ever changing demographic and will continue to evolve! Gen-Z however is bringing the completely new element of technology and digital experience to the table. Of course the internet is not new, but until now, there has not been a generation that has grown up with technology so readily available. This is a great opportunity for so many expanding companies, BUT it can also feel overwhelming to know how to reach out and obtain Gen-Z employees and clients.
Let’s face it. Gen-Z is not checking their emails as much as they should, and that makes it really hard to reach them if you do not have a phone number. Scams are also at an all time high, so most people are not responding to messages if they are coming from an unknown number. A text that reads ‘great new job opportunity’ is not going to work.
So what should companies do to obtain Gen-Z employees or clients? And how should you retain them? Well luckily we at To&From have the answers! We have Gen-Z employees and have worked with outreach for Gen-Z clients and we are here to share some tips and tricks for cracking into the new generation of the work force.
Forget mass-printed mugs and “we thought of everyone” tote bags. Gen Z employees crave personalization, purpose, and a sense of belonging. In a world where instagram seems to define everyone and linkedin connects matter more than ever, feeling like they are valued individually means so much, and will make you stand out.
First impressions matter. Curated welcome kits with sustainable, aesthetically pleasing items—think minimalist desk tools, ethically sourced snacks, or branded wearables they’ll actually want to wear—set the tone.
PAPIER
$69.00
Not only is this a personalized notebook, it comes with a matching card for extra personalization!
BRIGHTLAND
$85.00
Brightland is a female founded company, making this a perfect gift for any chef!
From birthdays to promotions, Gen Z values being seen and appreciated. Celebrate them with brands that they love, gifts that fit their lifestyle or a personalized gift list that lets them choose. Having the opportunity to pick a gift that is in keeping with their values is great, and also lets them know that your company cares about the same things.
AESOP
$60.00
Gift this face mask from certified B-Corp, Aesop. Gen-Z loves to feel pampered!
BEIS TRAVEL
$44.00
The perfect gift for any employee who loves to travel!
Create a culture of mutual appreciation with low-lift peer-to-peer gifting—digital thank-yous, snack box shoutouts, or even gamified gift exchanges. Feeling like they would be welcome members of a team makes a huge difference.
THE MILK BAR STORE
$60.00
Milk Bar has great treats for any age, but Gen-Z in particular really loves this brand!
Gen Z decision-makers are skeptical of the hard sell and allergic to inauthenticity. If you want to break through the noise, your gifting strategy needs to feel real and add value.
Swap the overly branded swag for gifts that reflect them, not you. Try:
Coffee gear for the caffeine-loving marketer
YETI
$30.00
Yeti is a well known brand and it’s popular among Gen-Z. Adding a company logo to this cup is COOL!
Quirky art prints for the creative lead
SOCIETY6
$20.00
Society 6 has tons of print options making it easy to find something personalized!
Gen Z supports brands that support something bigger. Gifts from underrepresented founders or with a social impact message turn a simple gesture into a statement.
Show them you share the same values and support the same causes
ONE TREE PLANTED
$50.00
Plant a tree gift from a brand dedicated to forest preservation!
Digital gifting isn’t just convenient—it’s expected. But that doesn’t mean it should feel transactional. Pair a gift with a quick Loom intro, or send a personalized gifting experience that feels elevated.
MASTERCLASS
$120.00
Gordon Ramsey is constantly trending on TikTok, this gift will be WELL received. Just trust us!
Seems strange coming from us, but sometimes this is just what your Gen-Zer wants! Whether its for a local coffee shop, or a day pass to a co-working space to beat the work-from-home blues, a gift card can still be personal! Bonus if you add a handwritten note or a loom video to accompany it!
Gifting is no longer about ticking a box—it’s about sparking a connection. Gen Z wants to feel understood, valued, and inspired. If your gifting strategy does that, you’re not just giving a product… you’re building a relationship.