According to the reportCultural Insights, do Adobe Stock, carried out by Adobe, Generation Z is expected to surpass the Boomers in the workplace later this year and make up 30% of the workforce by 2030. This increase of 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 because 57% of Generation Z plans to change jobs within a year. These adaptations are transforming the professional landscape, impacting corporate routines and work models
According to Paulinho Franqueira, Principal Solutions Consultant at Adobe in Brazil, the goal is not just to attract, but also retain these talents. This second objective is challenging, since Gen Z has a greater tendency to move professionally frequently, unlike previous generations. "Happily, the efforts to renew the corporate culture and offer greater flexibility in the work schedule have proven effective in retaining these talents, complete the executive.
Social Issues
Generation Z is the most diverse in the workplace and demands leaders who are honest, empathetic and fair. In the United States, 77% of young people in this generation believe it is essential to work for companies committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Furthermore, 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 76% of Gen Z defines a great work environment as one where "people are attentive, "friendly and socially conscious".
Company Benefits
For Generation Z, flexibility and the career plan are more important than compensation, a priority that contrasts with that of the baby boomers, that put salary 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 can be considered 'idealistic', but does not face the same financial pressures, how to support children, for example, observe Franqueira.
Career Development and Mentoring
A 2023 Adobe survey revealed that 83% of young people consider mentoring crucial for their development, but only 52% have a mentor, and 48% want more training in job-related technical skills. "When entering the job market", they know they need guidance, "and any company that offers a mentoring program will significantly increase talent retention", affirms Franqueira.
Life Balance and Mental Health
Generation Z values the balance between personal and professional life, prioritizing quality time outside of work. The trend research "What’s Next For Work" by YPulse revealed that 78% of young people in the United States feel burned out due to work. Burnout and the lack of balance between personal and professional life are the main reasons why Generation Z leaves their jobs, overcoming even the issue of inadequate salaries
Young people of this generation are also more likely to seek support for mental health 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 job market, companies that want to remain competitive need to adapt their cultures to meet the expectations of this new generation. Invest in flexibility, career development, mental health and social responsibility attract and retain them, creating a more dynamic work environment, inclusive and sustainable.
The changes initiated by this generation are already shaping the future of work, and the organizations that align with these trends will be better positioned to thrive in the coming years
