How to Get Hired in 2026: Gen Z Recruiter Shares What You Need To Know About The Job Market

Want to get hired in 2026? A Gen Z recruiter breaks down what actually works in today’s job market — from how recruiters screen CVs to negotiating pay and handling rejection. In this episode Elton talks with Kimberly Yong (senior talent advocate) about practical moves Gen Z candidates can make right now.Key takeaways:- Prepare a clear, achievement-focused CV and optimise your LinkedIn headline/about section so recruiters can find you. - Treat job-hopping and career gaps as explainable skill-building — but apply selectively and stay long enough to show growth. - In interviews, do your homework, ask thoughtful questions, and negotiate realistically (base + benefits + growth path).Connect with Kimberly on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yongziyen/**Timestamp Chapters:**00:00:00 Intro — Why recruiting and who Kimberly is00:04:49 Why the job market feels harder and Gen Z expectations00:08:50 CV & first‑round filters: what recruiters look for00:10:17 LinkedIn, social presence & networking advice00:16:08 Job‑hopping, career gaps and freelancing perspective00:22:45 Dealing with rejection, asking for feedback & maintaining relationships00:26:54 Salary negotiation, interview prep and final practical tipsSubscribe to A to Z Podcast, Hosted by Elton, a Zillennial navigating life and career in real-time, the A to Z Podcast dives deeply into the wins, failures, mindset shifts, and everyday moments that shape the Gen-Z journey. Each episode offers honest stories, practical insights, and fresh perspectives designed to empower listeners in business, career, and life—one letter at a time. About the Host Elton! I’m a podcast producer and speaker passionate about bridging generational gaps — especially helping companies understand and engage Gen Z in meaningful ways. Gen Z is here to change the world — but how can we connect them with the people who can truly make change? That’s the challenge I work to solve.I partner with marketing and sales teams to build thought leadership and humanize their brand through strategic podcasting and intergenerational communication. From concept to post-production, I guide clients with clarity, creativity, and consistency.I’ve worked with corporate training organizations like MQ Training and Koo Lily, as well as SHRDC in the manufacturing sector. I’ve produced and contributed to podcasts such as The Asian Century Podcast, 4 Se-Ibu, and A to Z Podcast.Whether you're launching a podcast to grow your audience, improving workplace synergy across generations, or exploring new ways to share your story — I’m here to help.🎤 Let’s connect. I’m always open to collaborating with forward-thinking brands, training providers, and podcast enthusiasts.Connect with the host Eltonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/elton-lim-/https://www.instagram.com/eltonlim_/https://www.youtube.com/@eltonlimerthong