Why We're Not Seeing Younger Generations Remaining Loyal to Employers Like Boomers

Generation Z and Millennials are two generations that continue to be the focus of attention in the job market. One common trait among these generations is their lack of loyalty to employers over long periods of time. While there may be exceptions within each generation, the overall trend shows that these generations are disrupting the job market by seeking more inclusive and diverse employers who value their ideas and provide long-term growth and benefits for their physical and mental well-being.

Unlike their parents and grandparents, who often stayed with the same employer for the entire length of their careers, these generations tend to change jobs every few years. What is driving these changes, and how can employers adapt to the needs of the current workforce?

Find our insights on this topic in this week's B-Informed newsletter.

The Grass Sometimes is Greener...

The thought process for all aspects of life has completely evolved from the traditional mindset of older generations like Gen X and Boomers. These older generations have grown up witnessing various economic hardships and have sought stability and comfort. The phrase "the grass isn't always greener on the other side" is something that many of us millennials grew up hearing. However, I believe that the younger generations have recognized that sometimes the grass IS indeed greener. Mindsets created and promoted through platforms like social media have fostered a culture within the younger generations that encourages them not to settle. The world offers endless opportunities, and if something isn't working and a person isn't happy, they shouldn't have to accept that's their life. Employers who fail to reward their staff, lack benefits and have toxic work cultures are realizing that younger generations will not tolerate that indefinitely. Those fortunate enough to find their dream job with all the boxes checked may be inclined to stay long-term, but those who aren't satisfied will not stay for extended periods.

The Impact of Social Media

The digital social space has the power to uplift and drive cultural movements, especially when it comes to individuals sharing their personal stories in the workplace. We've witnessed large companies being heavily criticized on social media due to the actions of just one employee seeking advice or sharing their experiences. There are countless videos online featuring comments and movements aimed at calling out unacceptable behavior and demanding more inclusive workplaces. Additionally, many younger generations use this platform to share their personal passions and missions in life, with a strong focus on improving foundations, philanthropic movements, and charities. Gen Z, in particular, is dedicated to making the world a better place and is highly focused on environmental issues and their own well-being.

Post Pandemic Mindsets

The pandemic has changed the way young people think by showing that anything can happen and everything can change in our lives in an instant. The events and circumstances of the post-pandemic culture have significantly affected the mental health of younger generations. Asking "How are you feeling?" is not just a courtesy but a necessity for the younger generations. There is a greater focus on mental health accessibility, working towards a greater cause, and prioritizing health and family, which is now more important than ever. As the workforce continues to become filled with these younger generations, employers will continue to experience a great shift when it comes to how they work.

Inside the Minds of Gen Z

According to CNBC , Gen Z workers report having the least meaningful work (14%) and least autonomy at work (21%) compared to other generations. Some reasons for this disengagement include:

• Burnout and stress: Gen Z experiences more burnout and stress than other generations
• Lack of motivation: Gen Z lacks motivation
• Uninspiring responsibilities: Gen Z workers find their responsibilities uninspiring
• Not feeling connected to coworkers: Gen Z workers don't feel connected to their coworkers
• Lifestyle: Gen Z wants their job to accommodate their lifestyle, rather than the other way around
• Working smarter: Gen Z tends to move jobs more frequently than older generations and focus on working smarter, not harder?

Conclusion

The way our job market has evolved and changed over the last few years has been significantly different from what existed before. Our workforce now has priorities outside of their work life, and what job seekers are looking for in long-term work differs among older generations and their priorities and values. As our world keeps evolving, so will the workforce. Employers should be prepared to continue to adapt to the demands of the current workforce, and those who don't may have a hard time retaining staff.