European workers reject rising U.S. work culture influence: Zety survey
GUAYNABO, PUERTO RICO — A new survey finds that European workers are increasingly worried about the spread of U.S. corporate practices into their workplaces, with 83% fearing a negative impact on their workplace culture.
The Zety Pan European Report, which surveyed 1,000 employees across the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain on March 21, 2025, reveals deep anxiety over longer hours, fewer holidays, and increased surveillance—trends many associate with American work norms.
“U.S. corporate culture is influencing European companies more than in previous years,” said 86% of respondents, with 37% describing the influence as “significantly stronger.”
Workers are particularly concerned about the role of high-profile U.S. business leaders and shifting global norms, with 83% fearing that figures like Elon Musk and others from the Trump administration could negatively shape workplace culture in their countries.
“U.S. corporate habits are often perceived as invasive or unsustainable by European professionals, signaling a misalignment in values around how work should be structured and experienced,” he report notes.
Labor protections and mental health at stake
The report finds that 78% of European workers worry U.S. corporate practices could threaten strong labor laws, work-life balance, and holiday time. “Adopting America’s ‘always-on’ work culture would worsen their mental health,” said 76% of those surveyed.
Many are ready to act if American-style policies take hold: 34% would start looking for a new job immediately if their company implemented longer working hours, return-to-office mandates, or reduced holidays. Nearly half (48%) would consider leaving if their work-life balance suffered.
There is also a strong call for policy action, with 68% supporting stronger labor laws to counter the adoption of U.S.-style workplace policies, and 95% emphasizing the importance of keeping European labour laws independent from U.S. influence.
Top concerns: Hustle culture, surveillance, and job security
European workers identified several American trends as especially troubling:
- 43% are most concerned about the overemphasis on “hustle culture” and long hours.
- 34% worry about increased workplace surveillance and productivity tracking.
- 33% fear layoffs and job insecurity, especially in tech and corporate sectors.
- 30% are concerned about AI and automation replacing jobs.
- 20% are troubled by the push to return to office and reduce remote work.
Limited appeal of U.S. work norms
Despite some attraction to higher salaries and performance-based pay (cited by 42%), most European workers remain skeptical of American workplace culture. Only 22% find the U.S. focus on individual achievement appealing, and just 24% value the American entrepreneurial mindset.
The findings underscore a strong cultural divide, with European employees prioritizing labor protections, work-life balance, and mental health over the perceived benefits of U.S. corporate practices.
