By Heather Nezich, courtesy of SBAM Approved Partner ASE
TalentLMS has released new survey results on Generation Z in the workplace. The survey reveals that mental health and work-life balance are major concerns for Gen Zers, the first generation of workers born in the digital era.
Gen Zers are the youngest working professionals today. As a reminder, the current generational breakdown includes:
| Generation | Born | Ages |
|---|---|---|
| Gen Z | 1997 – 2012 | 10 – 25 |
| Millennials | 1981 – 1996 | 26 – 41 |
| Gen X | 1965 – 1980 | 42 – 57 |
| Baby Boomers | 1955 – 1964 | 58 – 67 |
According to the survey, 53% of U.S. employees aged 19 to 25 plan to stay at the same company over the next year. Of those thinking of quitting, 42% cited burnout and a lack of work-life balance as one of the top reasons. Additionally, 45% of Gen Zers prefer a hybrid work model, and 81% find it important to have flexibility in when and where they work.
The survey reveals that for the youngest members of the workforce, a caring and supportive workplace is not just a nice-to-have, but a must-have. In fact, 77% of Gen Zers find it important to work for a company that cares about DE&I, and 76% define a great place to work as one with caring, friendly, and socially conscious people. Empathy, honesty, and the ability to listen are the top traits they value in managers.
In summary, key findings of the survey include:
- 82% of Generation Z employees find it important to have mental health days while half want mental health training.
- 77% find it important to work for a company that cares about diversity, equity and inclusion.
- A great place to work for 76% of Gen Zers is one with caring, friendly, and socially conscious people.
- 31% of young pros find it difficult to cope with pressure and stress at work.
- 64% of Gen Zers are satisfied with how well their education has prepared them for the workplace.
- Over a quarter of Gen Z employees will likely quit their job in the next 12 months.
- The top trait that Gen Z workers value in leaders and managers is empathy and honesty.
- The majority of employed Gen Zers prefer a hybrid work model.
- In-person socialization with their colleagues is important to 7 in 10 Gen Zs.
- 3 in 10 employed Gen Zers have not received workplace training.
- 59% of Gen Z workforce believe they are compensated fairly for the work they do.
- Why would Gen Zs quit their job:
- 1. Unsatisfactory salary (54%)
- 2. Burnout and lack of work-life balance (42%)
- 3. Not doing what they are passionate about (37%)
When it comes to the reasons why young talent is leaving their companies, they place the highest importance on salary (54%) and work-life balance (42%). Additionally, not doing what they are passionate about is the #3 reason to quit.
Gen Z is flipping the script on employers and forcing them to become more people centric. In order to compete in today’s workspace, employers must pay competitively, offer flexibility, and provide a supportive and caring work environment.
The full report can be found here: Gen Z in The Workplace.
Source: Talent LMS