Although Gen Z has only been active in the workplace for a few years, their impact is already noticeable. Raised in a world of technological connectivity, this youngest generation values flexibility, well-being and autonomy. This is forcing companies to rethink traditional working conditions and work cultures. Asia Skifati, associate director at recruitment specialist Robert Walters, talks about how Gen Z is transforming the workplace and how organisations are responding.
Flexibility and a good work-life balance are high priorities for Gen Z. This is clearly reflected in their preferences for fringe benefits. A recent survey by Robert Walters shows that the following five benefits are the most popular among Gen Z professionals:
Asia: ‘Organisations recognise that flexible working options and attractive fringe benefits are essential to attract and retain young talent. The survey shows that 83% of organisations will continue to offer the same number of home working days in 2025. In addition, fringe benefits will be renewed and better tailored to the needs of recent graduates, for example by offering elective packages. In addition to insurance, mental health, sports facilities and work-life balance are receiving increasing attention in the offer.’
Despite their ambition to make an impact, a significant proportion of Gen Z are not attracted to traditional management roles. 42% of Gen Z professionals say they would rather not become middle managers. The reason is obvious: too much stress relative to the pay. Instead of being stuck in a management role, they would rather choose roles where they can improve their skills and have more autonomy.
‘The traditional corporate ladder is gradually giving way to dynamic growth paths that better suit the needs of young talent,’ Asia notes. ‘Team-based or flat structures encourage collaboration, give employees more ownership of their work and provide space for personal growth. Well-being at work is also moving up the agenda, with programmes for mental health and job happiness.’
Communication plays a key role in Gen Z's work experience. Their preferences are strongly shaped by technology:
Apps such as Microsoft Teams and WhatsApp are increasingly used as primary means of communication. They offer a quick and informal way of contact that fits well with the preferences of younger workers.
‘However, phone calls will not disappear in the workplace and more so: video calls are gaining importance,’ Asia knows. ‘Companies therefore offer communication training to ensure that employees communicate effectively and professionally through all available channels. Mentorship programmes, in turn, help young professionals build more self-confidence, including in professional phone calls.’
Despite their relatively short presence in the workplace, Gen Z brings fresh perspectives and unique priorities. They challenge companies to re-examine their working conditions and work culture.
‘Organisations that respond to these trends early not only build an attractive working environment for Gen Z, but also lay the foundation for a future-proof work culture. With the right adjustments, companies can attract, motivate and retain talent now and in the generations that follow,’ Asia concludes.
To learn more about talent retention and attraction strategies, feel free to contact one of our teams, or discover our recruitment advice articles.
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