Youth from Generation Z are putting in extra hours at work - I'm clocking overtime too!
In recent discussions, the author has identified individuals born between 1995 and 2010 as the "Lazy Generation" or the "Stressed Generation." However, a closer look at Generation Z reveals a more complex and dynamic picture.
Research shows that members of Generation Z tend to plan their work hours around their private life, prioritising flexibility and work-life balance. Emilio Sakraya, a 25-year-old actor, echoes this sentiment, stating that Generation Z lives in a time with an overload of information and decisions to make, from morning till night. Sakraya's statement suggests that Generation Z is overwhelmed by the number of decisions they have to make daily, leading to feelings of stress, even with small decisions.
The EY Job Study of 2023 found that 29% of young people (16-24 years old) can imagine working in the public sector. This shift towards public service could be a response to Generation Z's values-driven approach, as they prioritise social causes and meaningful work.
Interestingly, the topic of universal basic income is popular among Generation Z, particularly among those younger than 25. However, support for this idea decreases with age, and older individuals (65+) are skeptical about it. The author expresses feeling old in relation to Sakraya's statement about Generation Z's stress levels, but also finds the idea of universal basic income repugnant and repulsive, emphasising the need for effort to achieve something.
Job security is the main motivation for young people when choosing an employer, with 70% naming it as the most important factor. This focus on job security contrasts with the author's view that there's no such thing as a free lunch, emphasising the need for effort to achieve something.
Generation Z exhibits key characteristics such as being digitally savvy, pragmatic, and values-driven. They challenge traditional management styles, preferring managers who act as mentors and support their development rather than supervisors focused on tasks. Their communication style is digitally oriented, favouring quick informal channels over lengthy emails, which differs somewhat from older generations' preferences.
However, concerns specific to Gen Z include job security and career stability in a rapidly changing economic and technological environment, with the cost of living and climate change also weighing on their minds. Their skepticism can lead to disengagement if workplaces do not adapt to their values and expectations, making retention a challenge for employers.
In summary, Generation Z demands workplaces that offer purpose, flexibility, mental health support, and authentic leadership, contrasting older generations’ often greater emphasis on long-term job security and traditional career paths. Their impact is driving a transformation toward more inclusive, tech-driven, and values-based work environments.
One notable preference among Generation Z is a return to traditional work practices such as time tracking, secure employment contracts, and eight-hour workdays. Despite their digital-first approach, they value stability and structure in their work lives.
As Generation Z continues to enter the workforce, it's clear that they will bring about significant changes. Employers who can adapt to their values and expectations are likely to find them to be valuable and loyal employees.
- To better support the wellness of Generation Z employees in the workplace, companies can apply science-based practices and integrate health-and-wellness initiatives to reduce stress and promote personal-finance management.
- The increased priority given to work-life balance among members of Generation Z necessitates a reevaluation of financial planning and lifestyle adjustments to factor in the costs associated with wellness and mental-health programs in the workplace.
- A successful workplace strategy for retaining Generation Z employees may involve offering flexible work arrangements, career development opportunities, and a healthy dose of financial literacy education to help them make informed decisions about their personal finances and lifestyle choices.
