Each generation brings different values and work habits to the workplace, and it is important to understand the perspectives of each group, according to Fast Company.
FlexJobs surveyed more than 7,000 Generation Z, millennial and Generation X professionals to better understand their attitudes and experiences in the workforce.
The survey asked respondents whether they feel more optimistic about their current career prospects than they did during the same time last year. Seventy-three percent of Gen Z workers said they have a more positive outlook this year than last year compared with 43% of millennials and 31% of Gen Xers.
When asked if they feel better about the current job market than they did last year, 66% of Gen Z workers said they believe the job market is better compared with 34% of millennials and 28% of Gen Xers. Fifty-five percent of Gen Xers, 53% of millennials and 29% of Gen Z workers believe the job market is worse.
Additionally, professionals were asked whether they are planning to change jobs within the next 12 months. Thirty-two percent of Gen Z workers plan to change jobs within the year compared with 61% of millennials and 57% of Gen Xers.
All three generations said salary, remote work, work-life boundaries and having a flexible schedule are the most important factors in a job.
Regarding stress in the workplace, Gen Z, millennials and Gen X rated the top three stressors as excessive workloads (85%), unrealistic expectations from the boss (79%) and ambiguity around job roles and expectations (77%). Other stressors include job security, work-life boundaries and lack of time.
All three generations struggle with separating work life from personal life. Eighty-eight percent of Gen Z workers, 68% of millennials and 52% of Gen Xers said they think too much of their personal identity is tied to their job. Ninety percent of Gen Z workers, 74% of millennials, and 65% of Gen Xers said they typically check email or other work communications after they sign off for the day. Additionally, 88% of Gen Z workers, 68% of millennials and 58% of Gen Xers check work communications during the weekend.
