Gamified recruitment processes promise to revolutionize the attraction of Generation Z

Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is the first truly digital generation, with experiences shaped by video games and interactive platforms. According to the research, PGB 2024, 73.9% of the national population declared that they play some digital game, regardless of the frequency or platform used. And, according to an exclusive survey by Ng.Cash, a digital account focused on young people, the gaming sector led Gen Z in financial transactions, accounting for a total of 48,15% of spending. This data reveals how the gaming world not only influences entertainment but also defines this generation's expectations regarding various aspects of life, including the job market. 

A Deloitte study indicates that 801% of Generation Z professionals prefer recruitment processes that offer some form of digital interactivity. With this in mind, many companies have invested in gamified recruitment processes, which use game elements to create a recruitment experience that goes beyond the traditional. This paradigm shift is not just a passing trend, but a response to the need to make recruitment more aligned with the habits and expectations of a generation that values innovation, immediacy, and relevance.

Gamified recruitment processes incorporate interactive challenges, scoring systems, and rewards that simulate real-world work situations. These methods not only engage candidates but also provide companies with a more accurate tool for assessing critical skills. According to a PwC report, companies that implemented gamification in recruitment reported a 301% reduction in time to hire and a 25% increase in retention of hired candidates.

Hosanna Azevedo, Head of Human Resources at Infojobs and spokesperson for Pandapé, the brand's HR software, explains: "Generation Z is accustomed to intuitive digital interfaces and seeks immediate feedback. Gamification in recruitment aligns with these expectations and can make the selection process more dynamic and relevant. Using this new format leverages this familiarity and creates a more engaging recruitment experience."

This method allows for a practical and contextualized assessment of competencies, unlike traditional interview methods. Games and challenges designed to simulate everyday professional tasks help identify skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and collaboration. "Through realistic simulations, we can observe candidates' performance in situations that reflect the work environment. This provides a more concrete view of how they can adapt and contribute to the company," notes Hosana. Furthermore, these platforms allow companies to identify emerging skills, such as the ability to adapt quickly and the aptitude for dealing with advanced digital technologies, characteristics often found in Generation Z candidates.

Furthermore, gamification can reduce the stress and anxiety associated with conventional recruitment processes. "The interactive experience tends to create a more relaxed environment, allowing candidates to present themselves more authentically. Reduced anxiety can lead to better performance, providing a more accurate assessment of their skills and cultural compatibility," adds Hosana.

In a market where the right talent can make all the difference, gamification is more than a fad—it's a natural evolution. Companies that understand and embrace this approach are not only attracting the best Gen Z candidates but also building a culture of innovation that resonates with the future of work. The question isn't whether gamification will impact recruiting, but rather who will be at the forefront when this shift takes hold.