PwC U.K. Empowers Gen Z Grads with Resilience Training to Thrive in the Workplace

PwC U.K. has introduced a resilience training program for its new graduates, focusing on developing essential skills such as handling criticism and office politics. The Big Four consulting firm aims to equip its fresh-faced hires with the human skills required to excel in client work, particularly in high-pressure situations. According to Phillippa O'Connor, chief people officer at PwC U.K., the graduates who join the company often meet the cognitive tests set by the firm but lack the resilience and communication skills necessary for success. "They don't always have the human skills that we want to deploy onto the client work we pass them towards," O'Connor said in an interview with The Sunday Times. The executive emphasized that resilience is crucial in handling day-to-day work dynamics, including pressure, criticism, or sticky situations. The resilience training program is a separate initiative from the firm's existing onboarding process and is designed to be completed within the first six months of employment. O'Connor stated that the company has "really doubled down" on this training, recognizing the importance of developing these skills in its new hires. The program aims to equip graduates with the ability to navigate complex office politics and handle criticism effectively. The introduction of the resilience training program reflects the challenges faced by Gen Z professionals in the corporate world. Despite being eager to succeed, many young professionals struggle with essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management. The pandemic has exacerbated these issues, leaving many graduates with gaps in their skills and experience. Experts suggest that the resilience training program is a proactive approach by PwC U.K. to address the skills gap in its new hires. "It's essential for companies to invest in developing the human skills of their employees, particularly in the early stages of their careers," said a spokesperson for a leading HR consulting firm. "This program demonstrates PwC U.K.'s commitment to supporting the growth and development of its employees." The resilience training program is currently being implemented for this year's graduates, with the company planning to evaluate its effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. As the corporate world continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether other companies will follow PwC U.K.'s lead in prioritizing resilience training for their new hires.