Gen Z is concerned about losing their jobs but isn’t willing to compromise on important aspects like work-life balance and career development, according to a recent survey by Unstop. The job market is becoming more challenging for this young generation, and they have different priorities compared to older workers.

The survey, which gathered feedback from 5,350 Gen Z employees and 500 HR professionals, highlighted several key concerns for this group, including job security, workplace flexibility, fair pay, recognition, and mental health support.

Fear of Losing Jobs

One of the biggest concerns for Gen Z workers is job security. Over half (51%) of those surveyed admitted they worry about losing their jobs. Additionally, 40% are anxious about finding jobs in their chosen fields once they’re ready to enter the workforce.

However, despite these fears, Gen Z workers have clear expectations for their careers. Around 77% of them consider a company’s brand to be more important than just the salary offered. Additionally, 43% prioritize hands-on experience and growth opportunities when choosing where to work.

Self-development and satisfaction are major priorities for this generation. A significant 72% of respondents said job satisfaction matters more to them than just earning a higher paycheck.

A Shift in Work Expectations

Ankit Aggarwal, the Founder and CEO of Unstop, explained that for Gen Z, work isn’t just about earning a regular paycheck. They want their jobs to align with other key parts of their lives. According to him, Gen Z is pushing for a more meaningful and dynamic work environment that enhances their lives, rather than one that feels routine. This survey offers valuable insights into Gen Z’s workplace preferences, signaling to companies that they must adapt to these evolving expectations or risk losing talent.

Implications for Employers

As more Gen Z employees enter the workforce, companies with multigenerational teams must adapt their policies to meet the expectations of these younger workers. The survey reveals that 78% of Gen Z workers switch jobs to advance their careers, yet 71% of HR professionals believe the primary reason for these job switches is better pay. This highlights a clear disconnect between what Gen Z values and what HR assumes.

For Gen Z, work-life balance and mental health are top priorities. If companies want to attract and retain Gen Z talent, they’ll need to ensure they have policies that support these areas.

The survey also uncovered that 44% of recruiters think Gen Z values company culture more than career growth. However, the data shows that Gen Z looks for both a clear path to promotions and a supportive company culture. Employers need to strike a balance between offering a positive workplace culture and opportunities for career progression to meet the expectations of Gen Z workers.