---
title: How to Recruit and Retain Gen Z for Facility Management
description: Discover how to attract and retain Gen Z talent in facility management through purpose-driven messaging, digital tools, mentorship and inclusion.
---

[Connected FM: A Blog by IFMA ](https://blog.ifma.org)

# [How to Recruit and Retain Gen Z for Facility Management](https://blog.ifma.org/how-to-recruit-and-retain-gen-z-for-facility-management)

 Written by [Kelsey Brown](https://blog.ifma.org/author/kelsey-barrett) | 12 January 2026

As Gen Z steps into the workforce, the facility management profession faces both a challenge and an opportunity. [Nearly one-quarter](https://gusto.com/resources/gusto-insights/skilled-trade-workers-2024) of new hires in trade industries are Gen Z, many opting out of traditional career paths to enter the workforce directly. They bring with them a new perspective, a strong preference for technology-driven environments, and evolving expectations around learning, leadership and workplace culture.

To connect with these rising professionals, we must rethink how we present, promote and support careers in facility management.

## **Rethink the Recruitment Message**

Gen Z is purpose-driven. They want careers that matter — roles where they can make a real impact. Facility management delivers on that promise, offering professionals the ability to directly influence sustainability, safety, innovation and workplace well-being.

But we must tell that story more clearly.

Today’s candidates are drawn to organizations that lead with impact. When we talk about facility management, we should highlight:

- Real-world contributions to **sustainability and energy efficiency**
- Opportunities to **innovate through smart buildings, AI and data**
- The **breadth and diversity of roles** across sectors and geographies

This generation is looking for more than a job, they want a career they can believe in. Facility management is that career. It’s up to us to make it visible.

## **Use the Right Tools to Reach Them**

Recruitment today must meet Gen Z’s digital expectations. Paper applications and outdated job boards simply don’t cut it anymore. The next generation expects **mobile-friendly, intuitive and resource-rich platforms** that help them explore careers with confidence.

That’s why we created [IFMA’s new career tool](https://blog.ifma.org/j?hsLang=en) built specifically for facility professionals worldwide. It includes:

- A **dedicated internship section** to help students and emerging professionals get started
- The ability for **organizations and mentors to post internships** and connect directly with rising talent
- An **AI-powered interview coach** that builds confidence and preparation
- Access to **real salary data and offer analysis tools** that empower better decisions

Recruiters need to meet the next generation where they are — on platforms that reflect their values, their learning styles and their tech fluency.

## **Engage and Develop Gen Z Through Mentorship**

Recruiting Gen Z is only half the equation. Retaining them requires growth opportunities, inclusivity and a sense of belonging.

That starts with offering clear paths to advancement. Encouraging early-career professionals to pursue a credential like the Facility Management Professional® can improve engagement and build loyalty. It also prepares them to eventually mentor the generation that follows.

Mentorship is also key. It’s not just a perk; it’s a strategy. Young professionals benefit enormously from structured guidance, especially as they navigate complex, evolving roles. Mentorship helps transfer institutional knowledge, builds confidence and strengthens the profession overall.

[IFMA’s Mentor Match,](https://blog.ifma.org/k?hsLang=en) located within Engage, makes it easy for members to connect and grow. When mentorship is embedded into your culture, it becomes a competitive advantage.

> Related: [5 Key Benefits of Having a Mentor or Mentee as a Facility Manager](https://blog.ifma.org/5-key-benefits-of-having-a-mentor-or-mentee-as-a-facility-manager?hsLang=en)

## **Build a More Inclusive Profession**

Representation and inclusion are non-negotiable. [**Eighty-three percent**](https://hiring.monster.com/resources/workforce-management/diversity-in-the-workplace/workforce-diversity-for-millennials)** of Gen Z candidates say that a company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is important when choosing an employer.** That means organizations need to be intentional in how they communicate opportunities — from using inclusive language to ensuring access and equity in every hiring process.

That starts with outreach. When young professionals see themselves represented in the profession — across gender, race, background and experience — they’re more likely to stay and grow with it.

#### **The Next Generation Is Ready — Are You?**

Attracting the next generation of facility managers requires more than open positions. It takes intention. It takes the right message, the right platforms and the right tools, like IFMA’s new career board, to open doors and spark meaningful careers.

[Explore the career tool.](https://blog.ifma.org/g?hsLang=en) Mentor an emerging professional. Share the story of what’s possible in this profession. Because the future is here, and it’s ready to lead.

[View full post](https://blog.ifma.org/how-to-recruit-and-retain-gen-z-for-facility-management)

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