According to the report Cultural Insights, from Adobe Stock, held by Adobe, Generation Z is expected to surpass Boomers in the workplace later this year and make up 30% of the workforce by 2030. This increase in the first generation of digital natives in the corporate world is leading companies to rethink their practices, adjusting them to the expectations of this generation regarding organizational culture, inclusion, benefits, career opportunities and mental health care.
Many companies are already reviewing their policies and cultures to retain these young people, especially as Generation Z 57% plans to change jobs within a year. These adaptations are transforming the professional landscape, impacting corporate routine and work models.
According to Paulinho Franqueira, Principal Solutions Consultant of Adobe in Brazil, the goal is not only to attract, but also to retain these talents.This second goal is challenging, since Gen Z is more likely to move professionally frequently, unlike previous generations.“Fortunately, efforts to renew corporate culture and offer greater flexibility in the workday have proven effective in retaining these talents”.
Social Issues
Generation Z is the most diverse in the workplace and requires leaders who are honest, empathetic and fair. In the United States, 77% of young people of this generation believe that it is essential to work in companies committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. In addition, 58% require their employers to prioritize social and environmental responsibility, according to a survey by Talent LMS and Bamboo HR, while 68% value engagement with social causes.
The same study found that Gen Z's 76% defines a great work environment as one in which “people are caring, friendly and socially conscious”.
Company Benefits
For Generation Z, flexibility and career path are more important than remuneration, a priority that contrasts with that of baby boomers, who put wages first. “Although there are overlaps between the preferences of different generations, the motivations behind these choices vary according to the stage of life. Generation Z may be considered an idealistic’, but does not face the same financial pressures as supporting children, for example”, notes Franqueira.
Career Development and Mentoring
An Adobe survey in 2023 revealed that 83% of young people consider mentoring crucial to their development, but only 52% have a mentor, and 48% want more training in work-related technical skills. “When entering the workforce, they know they need guidance, and any company offering a mentoring program will significantly increase the retention of” talent, says Franqueira.
Life Balance and Mental Health
Generation Z values work-life balance, prioritizing quality time outside of work. YPulse trends survey“What’s Next For Work” revealed that 78% of young people in the United States feel exhausted due to work.Depletion and lack of work-life balance are the main reasons why Generation Z leaves their jobs, even overcoming the issue of inadequate wages.
Young people of this generation are also more likely to seek mental health support compared to other generations. About 82% of them in the US consider it important to have days dedicated to mental health, while half would like to receive training in this area.
With Generation Z taking up more and more space and gaining a voice in the labor market, companies that want to remain competitive need to adapt their cultures to meet the expectations of this new generation. Investing in flexibility, career development, mental health and social responsibility attracts and retains them, creating a more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable work environment.
The changes initiated by this generation are already shaping the future of work, and organizations that align with these trends will be better positioned to thrive in the years ahead.
