Gen Zers happier at work than perceived – ResumeBuilder survey
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES — A new survey from ResumeBuilder.com debunks the popular narrative that Generation Z workers are unmotivated and dislike their jobs.
The survey of 518 employed Gen Zers found that 64% actually like or love their current job. Twenty-four percent feel neutral about their job, while 9% dislike their job, and 3% hate it.
“Gen Z is much more self-aware than I’ve seen of other generations entering the workforce. They know what they want and don’t want in the workplace, and they align their values to their career,” said Resume Builder’s resume and career strategist Julia Toothacre.
The data showed a correlation between income level and job satisfaction, with 80% of those making over $100,000 reporting they like their job compared to 57% making under $40,000.
Those in business or science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields were also more satisfied at 72% versus 50% in customer service roles.
“Money doesn’t buy happiness, but it buys comfort and time. These results reinforce that if you pay people a living wage that supports not only their basic needs, but allows them to live their lives, they are likely going to be happier all around,” Toothacre noted.
In addition to liking their work, 80% of Gen Zers view themselves as good or excellent employees, contrasting with managers’ previous complaints about this generation’s work ethic.
“In the previous survey, managers said that lack of technological skills was the top reason they found it difficult to work with Gen Z. Tech skills can be taught and colleges likely aren’t going to do it, so managers need to provide opportunities for Gen Z to learn and acquire those skills. Clarity and communication will solve most of the disconnect between managers and Gen Z,” Toothacre explained.
Other findings include:
- 21% of Gen Z say they love their boss, while 32% like their boss.
- Many Gen Z dislike their boss because of poor leadership skills (50%), playing favorites (39%), and mistreat them at work (38%).
- 84% make an effort to build positive coworker relationships as well
ResumeBuilder.com’s survey was conducted online by Pollfish on March 27, 2024, and included participants aged 18 to 27 currently employed for wages.
