Workplace friction between the generations has always existed. When Baby Boomers entered the workforce, they sought rewards and recognition that previous generations scoffed at. Then came Generation X, who were known for being more independent and were seen by older workers as not being team-players. Next arrived the Millennials, who brought with them new technological skills that really shook up a lot of workplaces, in ways that were both appreciated and ways that were not.
Now—Gen Z is entering the mix, and a recent study shows that the older generations are already experiencing frustrations with their younger coworkers. 74% of the managers and business leaders surveyed stated they found Gen Z to be more difficult to work with than other generations.
But as of 2025, Gen Z is going to be making up nearly 27% of the global labor force. In other words, they are no longer the future of work, but the present. This means it’s time to start understanding what they bring to the table and how to best use their skills while respecting their specific workplace values and attitudes.
The oldest Gen Zers are currently twenty-six years old, meaning the first wave of them to enter the workforce would’ve been attending high school or college during the pandemic. This is by far the most important factor to consider when evaluating the general Gen Z attitude surrounding work and workplace values.
Attending school during lockdown, logging into class from the comfort of their own homes, and missing out on key socialization features of in-person learning, had a major impact on how Gen Z’s approach the labor market. What they value above all else is, therefore, not surprising.
Top Three Workplace Values of Gen Z:
- Flexibility
Research from the World Economic Forum found that 73% of Gen Z employees want permanent flexible work alternatives—including, but not limited to, fully remote work, hybrid work, four-day work weeks, and the freedom for employees to create their own schedules. Seeing as this is a top priority for most Gen Zers, and they are soon going to be representing more than a quarter of the global workforce, it’s safe to say that the future of remote work is looking pretty optimistic.
- DEI
More than any generation before them, Gen Z possess a dedication to create work spaces that are more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Furthermore, DEI, in the eyes of your average Gen Z worker, has a broader meaning than simply focusing on non-biased hiring practices or equity seminars. For instance, one study found that 88% of Gen Z’s felt that companies must inquire about their employees preferred gender pronouns.
- Mental Health Considerations
Lastly, mental health accommodations are seen by many Gen Z workers as necessities and not perks. This makes sense, when you consider that 42% of Gen Zers ages 19 to 24 have been diagnosed with a mental health condition. Another study looked at how likely a Gen Z worker was to leave their job if their wellbeing wasn’t being prioritized. 78% responded saying they would at least consider it. The same number also stated they felt their wellbeing at work was just as important as their salary.
Despite the frustrations and disagreements between older managers and Gen Z workers, research shows that there are financial benefits for businesses who take the above values into consideration.
For example, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics has been paying close attention to the productivity and efficiency trends in the post-covid workforce. Researchers found the flexibility of a hybrid workplace reduces attrition, improves employee satisfaction, and does not have a significant effect on productivity. Employees who were offered flexible work schedules also tended to take less sick days and made up for lost time when they were in the office and/or over the weekend.
Additionally, DEI initiatives have been proven to boost productivity and lead to higher levels of employee retention. Not to mention, creating a more equitable workplace—which includes taking steps to accommodate those with mental health diagnoses—is simply the right thing to do.
There are always going to be growing pains when it comes to shifting labor markets and making changes to established workforces, but at the end of the day, bringing in young workers with innovative ideas and fresh perspectives is always going to be a net good.
So if you’re looking to tap into some of the unique skills and viewpoints of Gen Z workers but don’t know where to start, let us help you find the perfect match. At CyberCoders, we’ve navigated our way through all the latest labor market trends and know how to recruit the best of the best in a fraction of the time. Click here to find out more.
