What Millennials and Gen Z Are Teaching Us About the Remote Work Evolution

Remote work and flexible arrangements are transforming the workplace, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge. These tech-savvy generations value the freedom to work from anywhere and choose their devices, reflecting deeper preferences for flexibility and innovation.

As companies strive to attract and retain top talent, they’re adapting to these new expectations, moving beyond the traditional 9-5 model. Balancing generational differences while staying ahead of future remote work trends is becoming crucial for businesses in today’s dynamic environment.

Remote Work and the Decline of the 9-5 Office Tradition

Gone are the days when employees had to be in the office to access essential tools and resources. Remote work and flexible schedules are becoming the new norm, thanks largely to the influence of younger generations who have grown up in the digital age.

Digital natives, Millennials and Gen Z, have always been immersed in technology—from smartphones to social media—and they value the freedom to work from anywhere.?

?A FlexJobs survey shows that 84% of millennials and 74% of Gen Z want more remote work options, while only 49% of Gen X and 32% of Baby Boomers share that desire. This generational shift is a key driver behind the rise of flexible work arrangements.

The Great Resignation Changed How People Think About Work

The Great Resignation marked a pivotal moment that shifted how people think about work. During the pandemic, many employees reevaluated their priorities, seeking more flexibility and control over their work environments.

As a result, many companies have had to rethink their Return-to-Office (RTO) strategies. While some businesses push for full-time office attendance, they often face resistance, particularly from those who relocated for lifestyle reasons or seek a better work-life balance. In fact, today, nearly 80% of U.S. companies offer some form of remote work, according to Stanford economist Nicholas Bloom.

Though the peak of the Great Resignation may be behind us, its impact endures. Employees now expect more autonomy, and businesses must embrace remote work options to remain competitive in the talent market.

A Demand for Device Freedom

Another trend gaining momentum is the increasing demand for more choice in workplace devices. Younger employees are used to having multiple options when it comes to technology. According to Dell, 82% of Millennials and 75% of Gen Z believe that access to the latest technology boosts productivity, with many saying it’s essential to their job satisfaction.

Gen Z, in particular, has a low tolerance for outdated technology, having been raised in a fast-paced digital world. Giving employees the freedom to choose their devices not only helps them work more efficiently, but also allows them to take greater ownership of their work environment. This is especially crucial for remote workers, who depend on their devices for connectivity and productivity.

Sustainability is another factor driving this demand. Millennials and Gen Z are more likely to value eco-friendly practices, making them advocates for using a single laptop for both personal and professional purposes—reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact.

An Openness to New Technology

Known for their eagerness to adopt new tools, Millennials and Gen Z are also pushing for the integration of cutting-edge technology in the workplace. These generations are not just passive users of tech—they actively seek out innovations that make their work more efficient. Adobe reports that more than two thirds of Millennials and of Gen Z credit technology for improving their productivity, compared to just 53% of Gen X and 38% of Baby Boomers.

Their comfort with digital collaboration tools, like video conferencing and project management software, positions them as leaders in a more connected, tech-forward work culture. This willingness to embrace new technology fosters innovation and productivity across organizations.

Baby Boomers and Gen X: A Different Perspective

While younger generations are pushing for increased flexibility and tech options, Gen X and Baby Boomers tend to have a different view. Having come of age in more traditional office environments, these generations often prefer structured workspaces and may see remote work as a perk rather than a necessity.

However, Gen X is often seen as a “bridge” between the old and the new, adapting more easily to change than Baby Boomers. Their flexibility and openness to new ideas make them valuable assets in workplaces transitioning to more modern workstyles. Baby Boomers, on the other hand, may be more resistant to technology and remote work, having spent most of their careers in more traditional setups.

Looking Ahead at Future Generations

As we consider the future, it’s worth asking what will happen when Generation Alpha—those born after 2010—enters the workforce. This group is expected to be even more comfortable with tech than their predecessors, likely demanding even greater advancements in workplace technologies, sustainability efforts, and work-life balance. Their influence could further disrupt work culture and expectations in the years to come.

Fulfilling the Needs of the New Workforce

As Millennials and Gen Z continue to dominate the workforce (by 2025, Gen Z employees will account for 27% of the workforce), it’s critical for organizations to align with their expectations—whether that’s by offering remote work flexibility, providing more device choices, or adopting new technologies. Companies that adapt to these demands will have the edge in attracting top talent and fostering a more dynamic, innovative workplace. On the other hand, those that resist these changes may struggle to remain competitive.

Venn

At Venn, we believe in empowering people from all generations to thrive both professionally and personally. Our purpose-built software enables BYOD workforces, offering employees the tools and trust they need to work in their own way—on their own devices—while maintaining security and control. By embracing flexibility, sustainability, and modern technology, Venn helps organizations meet the evolving demands of today’s workforce.

Learn more about how Venn is shaping the future of work.