What Young People Really Want from Insight Days & Work Experience 

Many Gen Z are entering the workforce with lower confidence in their professional skills and a growing gap between what they want, what they know, and what they expect from work. Only 23% feel ready for the workplace but Insight Days and Work Experience can bridge that gap. Young people are looking for real experiences, practical advice, networking opportunities and a sense of belonging. When organisations get this right, they not only prepare students for the future but also strengthen their own talent pipelines.

Key Themes

• Providing Real Work Experience
  Create hands-on opportunities that build confidence, skills, and CV-ready experiences - not just observation days.
• Enabling Discovery & Self-Understanding
  Give students the space to explore how they collaborate, approach challenges, and fit into the world of work.
• Giving Actionable Career Advice
  Share clear insights into career paths, hiring processes, and what employers are really looking for moving beyond generic tips or TikTok soundbites.
• Building Two-Way Networks
  Offer structured chances for students to connect with professionals, ask questions, and start developing meaningful relationships.
• Cultivating Belonging
  Show young people that they have a real future in your workplace by creating environments where they can see themselves thrive.