Is the campus placement desk still relevant? Maybe. But it’s not the same desk anymore. Gen Z is wired differently. They’re tech-native, purpose-driven, and restless. And recruiters? They’ve had to switch gears fast. The hybrid era demands more than flashy brochures and career fairs. It demands strategy.
The Campus Has Moved Online
It began subtly. Then suddenly, campuses went remote. So did recruitment. Job portals replaced notice boards. Webinars replaced auditoriums. But that wasn’t enough. Something was missing.
Gen Z wanted more. They expected:
● Personalised outreach
● Fast feedback
● Transparency
● Remote flexibility
● Company culture they can “feel”
The old pitch? Too corporate. Too polished. It doesn’t click anymore.
New Rules for a New Crowd
Recruiters had to learn fast. The hybrid model came with its own quirks. Campus access wasn’t always guaranteed. But screens were. So screens became the bridge.
New strategies emerged:
● Social-first presence: Careers pages are out. Instagram reels, Discord channels, and LinkedIn content are in.
● Virtual internships: Not just trials—but talent tests.
● Pre-placement engagement: Gamified tests, AMA sessions, and day-in-the-life videos.
● Alumni connects: Hearing it from someone who "was in their shoes” still works.
The medium changed. But intent mattered more.
What Gen Z Actually Wants
Forget bean bags and branded pens. They want:
● Flexibility, not just in hours, but in how they work
● Clear growth paths—no corporate maze
● Real talk over scripted HR spiels
● Inclusion that feels lived, not posted
● A reason to care
Salary still matters. But it’s not everything. They Google company reviews. They check
Glassdoor. One red flag—and they’re gone.
So, trust must be built. Quickly. Authentically. Not sold. Not forced.
The Hybrid Hiring Funnel
In this era, the hiring funnel has morphed:
● Discovery: Through socials, micro-influencers, and peer reviews
● Interest: Gained via content, culture previews, or brand storytelling
● Application: Short, mobile-first, and friendly
● Assessment: Timed tasks, but with meaning
● Interaction: One-on-ones over robotic panels
● Offer: Fast. Or it’s forgotten.
Every touchpoint counts. One glitch, and momentum is lost. It’s not just hiring anymore. It’s
experience design.
Conclusion
Campus recruitment hasn’t vanished. It’s just moved. The hybrid world hasn’t killed connection—it’s just changed the plug point. And Gen Z? They’re listening, watching, judging. The question is—will your strategy hold their attention long enough to say yes?
Not everything needs to be flashy. But it must feel real.