Distinguished Cal State LA College of Business and Economics alumnus and professor, Dr. Santor Nishizaki announced the release of his first book, a publication five years in the making, titled Working with Gen Z: A Handbook to Recruit, Retain, and Reimagine the Future Workforce after COVID-19.
This project is a reflection of Dr. Nishizaki’s desire to support “Gen Z,” the generation born between the years of 1995 and 2012. He has been studying generations in the workplace for over a decade, seeking to educate employers on best practices for attracting talented Gen Z and millennial graduates, while preparing students for the workforce in his classroom.
Working with Gen Z: A Handbook to Recruit, Retain, and Reimagine the Future Workforce after COVID-19 by Dr. Santor Nishizaki
Much of Dr. Nishizaki’s research outlines differences in what has traditionally characterized many workplaces and the preferences and desires of Gen Z workers, such as a desire for a hybrid work schedule or their affinity for finding a workplace that embodies core values such as empathy and intentionality. Dr. Nishizaki believes that to unlock the potential of the new generation, employers and colleagues must understand them. He emphasizes that this generation consists of “digital natives,” seeking meaningful work and mentorship beyond what is typically offered with basic digital or functional skill training.
Dr. Nishizaki’s research and book is in part inspired by a special collaboration between one of his mentors, Dr. Tye Jackson Dean of the College of Business & Economics, and Dr. Angela Young Associate Dean of the College of Business & Economics to bridge the gap between students and young professionals. “College has historically left students underprepared for the workforce and the Professional Fundamentals Program changes that,” Dr. Nishizaki said. The program within CBE features guest speakers from a variety of industries, who highlight topics like how to network or strengthen public speaking skills.
“We can help our students by providing tools like how to budget and increase credit scores, how to network, or tips to negotiate their first salary, all from experts in these fields,” Dr. Nishizaki said. “These tools aren’t offered at many colleges and universities.”
Prior to the publication of Working with Gen Z, Dr. Nishizaki has also been quoted as an expert in news features on Gen Z in the workplace in notable publications such as the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Inc. and Psychology Today. “Gen Z is very optimistic about the world. They care about the environment, about equality, and they’re very serious about their future early on,” Dr. Nishizaki said in an interview with Cal State LA’s College of Business & Economics. “They’re interning for Fortune 500 companies as early as high school.”
Those interested in learning more about Dr. Nishizaki’s work can learn more by listening to his podcast, “Zillennial Leader,” from his regular keynote speaker appearances, and on the Cal State LA website. His new book, Working with Gen Z: A Handbook to Recruit, Retain, and Reimagine the Future Workforce after COVID-19, is available to purchase on Amazon and the audiobook is available on Audible. To learn more about Dr. Nishizaki and any upcoming work, connect with him on LinkedIn or visit his website.
Published on February 2, 2023
By Nicole Ju