What Gen Z Really Wants When It Comes to Work

Gen Z—the generation of Americans born between 1996 and 2010—knows what it wants when it comes to work, careers and professional satisfaction. Not surprisingly, flexibility, money and job security top the list for this group, which represents about 20 percent of the U.S. population. As more members of this younger generation enter the workforce, successful employers will take note of their priorities.

Interestingly, they comprise a smaller share of the workforce than Gen X and millennials at just over 70 percent, and they are also better educated than the preceding generation. Overall, this generation of workers, which is more keyed into the importance of mental health and wellness, seeks meaningful work that comes with flexibility and true work-life balance.

Further, a solid salary and benefits package are also important—longer hours and micromanagement top the list of turnoffs. The flexibility of remote work is another notable plus.

Gen Z is especially interested in tech jobs, consulting, engineering and freelance work. And employers are interested in hiring more young employees—more and more companies are also recognizing that they may need to bridge the knowledge and cultural gaps among generations in the workplace.

As veterans of learning, interning and finding their first jobs during a global pandemic, Gen Z knows what it wants and is willing to wait to find the right position. Employers may need to roll out the red carpet and offer an impressive package to attract the best of the best.