How to Support Gen Z Employees in the Workplace
Generation Z, comprising those aged 12-27, is steadily becoming a significant part of the workforce, with 4.3 million employed in the UK as of 2022. While they bring fresh perspectives and digital expertise to workplaces, they also present unique challenges for employers.
Research surveying over one thousand managers and business leaders shows that 74% of managers find Gen Z more difficult to work with than other generations. But why is this the case, and how can businesses attract, support, and retain them effectively?
How Is Gen Z Different from Past Generations?
Gen Z is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age, making them highly adaptable to technology and innovation. However, their outlook is shaped by significant global events such as COVID-19, the Ukrainian war, and ongoing climate crises, which have left many fatigued and with a negative outlook on life. In fact, 45% of Gen Z participants in a Global Web Index study admitted they rarely or only sometimes feel optimistic.
Their self-worth is also uniquely tied to their work performance. A 2023 Voxburner survey revealed that 45% of Gen Z workers believe their self-worth is directly linked to how they perform at work. This highlights that, contrary to popular stereotypes about Gen Z being disengaged or unmotivated, they place a significant amount of value on their professional contributions. For this generation, work isn’t just a means to an end—it’s a core part of their identity and a source of validation.
However, this connection between self-worth and work performance also underscores the importance of creating supportive environments where they can thrive. When performance dips or feedback is lacking, it can have a disproportionate impact on their confidence and mental health. Providing clear goals, consistent feedback, and opportunities for growth can help Gen Z employees feel valued and motivated while mitigating the risk of burnout.
What Support Do Gen Z Employees Need?
Gen Z employees report higher instances of mental health issues than any other generation, with 1 in 3 citing stress, anxiety, or depression in the past year. While two-thirds believe their workplaces support their mental wellbeing, a concerning 34% do not.
To support this cohort effectively, businesses should focus on:
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Mental Health Initiatives:
Gen Z employees are particularly vulnerable to mental health challenges, with many citing burnout and poor mental health as key reasons for leaving previous jobs—14% of them reported feeling their job was detrimental to their wellbeing. Businesses can address this by offering comprehensive mental health resources, such as access to counseling, stress management programs, or mental health days. -
Flexible Work Environments:
Flexibility is a top priority for Gen Z, who value a healthy work-life balance and the autonomy to choose how and where they work. Offering hybrid or fully remote work options can accommodate these needs, allowing employees to better manage personal commitments alongside their professional responsibilities. -
Development Opportunities:
For Gen Z, career growth is more than a perk—it’s an expectation.
They want to see a clear path for advancement and opportunities to expand their skills through training, mentorship, or new challenges. By investing in their development, businesses can build a sense of purpose and commitment, making employees feel like valued contributors to the organization’s success.
How to Attract and Retain Gen Z Talent
Attracting and retaining Gen Z workers requires alignment with their values and priorities:
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Purpose-Driven Work:
Gen Z is deeply motivated by purpose and seeks employers who align with their ethical and environmental values. Organizations that prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and meaningful work will resonate with this generation, making them more likely to stay engaged and committed. -
Supportive Cultures:
Gen Z thrives in inclusive, collaborative environments where they feel heard and valued. Creating a workplace that emphasizes diversity, equity, and open communication fosters a sense of belonging, which is crucial for retention. -
Recognition and Rewards:
Acknowledging Gen Z’s achievements through meaningful recognition, whether verbal praise or tangible rewards, is essential. Offering perks like fitness benefits or wellness incentives shows employees that their contributions are appreciated and reinforces loyalty.
The Role of Wellbeing Initiatives and Fitness Benefits
Wellbeing initiatives, such as fitness benefits, play a crucial role in addressing Gen Z’s mental and physical health challenges. Incentives like Hussle’s corporate fitness discounts include:
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Flexible Access:
Hussle’s employee fitness benefits offer thousands of gym locations and wellness options across the UK, giving employees the flexibility to choose when and where they work out. This flexibility enables employees to integrate fitness into their daily routines, reducing barriers to staying active and promoting a healthy work-life balance, which is important as evidenced by the 13% of Gen Zs in a 2024 Deloitte Survey who left their previous roles due to a lack of positive work-life balance. -
Improved Mental Health:
Regular exercise has been shown to significantly reduce anxiety and depression, which are prevalent concerns among Gen Z. Additionally, physical activity boosts mood, enhances energy levels, and helps combat the effects of stress, contributing to a more positive mental state overall. -
Increased Retention:
By offering wellness programs such as fitness benefits, companies show a genuine commitment to their employees’ wellbeing. These initiatives not only boost employee morale but also encourage loyalty, ultimately helping to reduce turnover.
Conclusion
Supporting Gen Z employees isn’t just about addressing challenges—it’s about unlocking their potential.
By focusing on wellbeing, purpose, and career growth, companies can create environments where this generation feels valued and empowered. Programs like Hussle’s flexible fitness benefits are a tangible way to make a difference, helping businesses attract and retain the next generation of talent while promoting healthier, happier workplaces.
