What Gen Z Wants at Work (and What They’ll Walk Away From)

What Gen Z Wants at Work (and What They’ll Walk Away From)

Let’s be real—Gen Z isn't here for corporate fluff or vague job descriptions. They’ve grown up online, seen workplace red flags play out in real time, and aren’t afraid to dip if a job doesn’t vibe with their values.

By 2030, Gen Z will make up around 30% of the U.S. workforce. If companies want to stay relevant, it’s time to really tune in.

What Gen Z Is Actually Looking For

1. Clarity Over Buzzwords
No more “rockstar” or “ninja” job titles. Just tell them what the job actually is. Be specific about day-to-day responsibilities, what success looks like, and how they’ll make an impact.

Roughly 97% of Gen Z says work is part of their identity, so they’re looking for roles where they know what they’re signing up for—and how they’ll grow. (Seramount)

2. Flexibility Without the Fine Print
Remote work. Hybrid setups. Flex hours. These aren’t perks—they’re the baseline. Gen Z wants to be trusted to get their work done in the way that works best for them.

About 73% of Gen Z employees say they want permanent flexible work options. (Johns Hopkins Imagine)

3. Real Growth (Not Just “Opportunities”)
If there’s no clear path forward, they’re not sticking around. Learning budgets, mentorship, and skill-building programs go a long way. Show them they’re not just filling a seat—they’re building something.

67% of Gen Z want to work at companies where they can actively grow their careers. (Seramount)

4. Mental Health That’s More Than a Slide Deck
Saying you “support mental health” isn’t enough. Gen Z wants PTO that actually gets used, managers who respect boundaries, and access to real mental health resources.

With 40% of Gen Z feeling stressed most of the time, this isn’t optional. (Deloitte)

5. Transparency, Always
From salary bands to company updates—just keep it real. They’d rather hear the truth (even when it’s messy) than be sold a version of things that doesn’t match reality.

43% of Gen Z say they want a voice in company decisions. That starts with being looped in. (Deloitte)

What They’ll Walk Away From

• Burnout Culture
  If the vibe is “always on,” they’re out. Gen Z is setting better boundaries and avoiding burnout whenever they can. (New York Post)
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• Leaders Who Don’t Listen
  They want feedback to go both ways. 61% believe they can drive change where they work—and expect leaders to be open to it. (Deloitte)
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• Rigid, Outdated Policies
  If your handbook feels like it’s from 2004, it’s probably a no.
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• Inauthentic Culture
  If what you say externally doesn’t match how things actually feel inside the company? They’ll see through it and keep scrolling.

The Bottom Line

Gen Z isn’t asking for the world—they just want real, respectful, and supportive workplaces. If you’re building a culture that’s flexible, transparent, and growth-focused, you’re on the right track.

And if not? They’re not afraid to bounce.

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