Eight in 10 generation Z employees say employers have a responsibility to support the psychological (83 per cent) and physical (81 per cent) well-being of workers, according to a new survey by Top Employers Institute.
The survey, which polled more than 2,300 global employers and more than 1,700 gen Z employees, found 82 per cent of employee respondents said it’s important to have flexibility in their schedule and the ability to manage their work hours. When asked if they would accept a lower salary if it meant a better work-life balance, 62 per cent said yes.
Similarly, 82 per cent expressed a desire for choice and flexibility in the well-being offerings provided by their employer.
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More than three-quarters (78 per cent) of respondents said work is a place to build community, social connections and belonging. When asked what kind of leader they want to work for, respondents cited emotional intelligence as the No. 1 quality they seek in a manager.
Roughly three-quarters agreed that artificial intelligence would allow them to learn new skills (75 per cent) and that they felt equipped to take advantage of this new technology in the workplace (71 per cent). However, just 60 per cent agreed it would have a positive impact on their career.
“The results showcase that gen Z values work-life balance, purpose-driven employment and opportunities for growth more than previous generations,” said Jake Canull, regional director for Top Employers Institute, in a press release. “The data finds organizations that adopt these priorities are better positioned to attract and retain top talent from the gen Z workforce.”
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