Unstop has released its latest Talent Report titled “GenZ at the Workplace.” Launched at the Mumbai edition of Unstop Talent Meet 2024, the report is based on a survey of over 5350 GenZ individuals and 500 HR professionals. It gleans insights into key topics including job expectations, workplace flexibility, compensation and recognition, employee well-being, and mental health which are the most important factors to GenZs.
The report highlights a significant concern among GenZ professionals, with 51 per cent expressing fear of job loss at present. This anxiety extends to their career prospects, as 40 per cent worry about securing positions in their preferred fields upon entering the job market.
Despite these reservations, GenZ demonstrates a clear set of priorities when it comes to their careers. 77 per cent of the respondents prioritise the role or brand over commercials, with 43 per cent specifically seeking hands-on experience and growth opportunities. This focus on professional development is further emphasised by the fact that 72 per cent of GenZs consider job satisfaction more important than salary.
Unstop’s report also reveals a disconnect between GenZ's motivations and HR perceptions. While 78 per cent of GenZs switch jobs for career growth, 71 per cent of HR professionals assume it's primarily for better pay. In reality, only 25 per cent of GenZs prioritise money as their main motivation while switching jobs.
Work-life balance is one of the crucial factors to consider in any job for GenZs, with 47 per cent of them citing this as a key element when evaluating potential employers. Their ideal workday involves completing routine tasks efficiently, leaving room for skill-building and productivity without feeling overwhelmed.
Further, Unstop’s report underscores GenZ’s ambition and desire for growth. Their top priority is a solid career path with room for promotions, accompanied by a vibrant, supportive culture. While 44 per cent of recruiters believe GenZ values company culture more than career progression, the reality is more nuanced. GenZ seeks a balance of both, with a strong emphasis on opportunities for personal and professional development.
Ankit Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Unstop, shared his thoughts. “For the youngest generation in the workforce, work isn’t just a place you go to every day to get your account credited regularly. It has to fit into several key aspects of your life seamlessly. The GenZ workforce is bringing about a revolution and pushing for a work environment that is purposeful rather than monotonous. They are reminding us that work should be a part of life, and not the other way around. Unstop’s report is comprehensive and offers details into GenZ’s workplace preferences. It’s a call to action for employers and recruiters. Those employers who adapt to these fast-changing expectations will be preferred by the new generation of employees.”
The GenZ at the Workplace report also delves into other aspects such as GenZ’s top reasons for switching jobs, top concerns while entering the job market, their expectations with respect to mental health, and their varied working style that shifts from the one-size-fits-all approach.
