Just recently, Generation Z has overtaken Boomers as a proportion of the workforce, and by 2025, those born between 1997 and 2012 will account for 27% of all workers. They bring new ideas and expectations and dramatically change the culture of the workplace.
From their distaste for the standard 9-to-5 work schedule to their unwillingness to accept traditional office norms, it’s clear that Gen Z is looking to shake things up. A recent survey conducted by Indeed reveals several ways the company can make that happen next year.
Here are three ways Gen Z will change the workplace in 2025.
1. Improve flexibility and prioritize work-life balance
Gen Z has openly expressed their distaste for 40-hour work weeks and is unwilling to sacrifice their health for work. They use their sick days and paid time off without feeling guilty, and they confidently uphold workplace boundaries.
This makes work flexibility highly appreciated. They want a position that adds value to their life rather than consuming it.
Many people are finding this desirable flexibility in remote and hybrid working. In fact, one in four workers between the ages of 18 and 34 has never worked in a traditional office, and many joined the workforce during or after the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Indeed, many young workers are taking full advantage of the flexibility that remote work provides. 38% of employees aged 18-34 have attended a gym or workout class while at work, and 21% admitted to taking a nap.
Thankfully, 42% of these young workers report that their employers encourage them to create their own schedules. If Gen Z has anything to say, this trend is likely to continue.
2. Increased integrity
Gen Zers are not afraid to voice their opinions, even on topics that were once considered taboo or professionally.
Indeed found that 64% of young workers are comfortable sharing medical and health information and 63% are comfortable sharing their political views. A majority, 84%, are willing to talk about their hobbies and vacation plans, 68% talk about family information, and 57% are open about their cannabis use.
But some think Gen Z takes honesty a little too far, at least when it comes to the corporate world. If you’re missing work because you didn’t sleep as well as usual, you’ll say it without any hesitation.
3. More sociability and connection.
Perhaps the most surprising finding in Indeed’s survey was Gen Z’s desire for community at work, including bringing back office holiday parties, which 95% said would increase engagement.
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Young workers crave opportunities to connect and build social lives at work. They want more opportunities to socialize with colleagues in the form of office mixers, which are often considered “cheesy” and undesirable.
Considering Gen Z is the loneliest generation (19% of 16-24 year olds say they feel lonely ‘often’ or ‘always’), they probably spend most of their day feeling lonely. It’s natural that people are looking for connections in a workplace where they spend a lot of their time. -today.
Sahlah Syeda is a writer for YourTango, covering entertainment, news and relationships topics.
