What drives gen Z & millennial job satisfaction: Workplace changes you need to make

The expectations and motivations of the new generation of employees are shifting. For Gen Z and millennial workers—two groups comprising a substantial portion of today’s global workforce—the driving force behind job satisfaction is not simply a paycheck. Rather, these younger generations are seeking purpose-driven work that aligns with their values, ethics, and well-being. 

According to the 2024 Deloitte Gen Z and Millennial Survey, which captured the perspectives of nearly 23,000 respondents across 44 countries, the key to keeping these employees engaged lies in purpose, environmental consciousness, and mental health support.

Perhaps the most striking revelation of the Deloitte report is the overwhelming importance of having a sense of purpose at work for Gen Z and millennials. A staggering 86% of Gen Z respondents and 89% of millennials reported that finding purpose in their jobs is crucial to their overall job satisfaction and well-being. This desire for meaningful work transcends basic employment needs; these generations want to feel that their work contributes to something larger than just profit margins.

More than ever, young employees are willing to make bold decisions when their values are compromised. Many are rejecting job offers or turning down assignments if they believe an employer’s practices conflict with their ethics. Whether it’s concerns over a company’s environmental impact, inequitable policies, or insufficient mental health support, these workers are not afraid to take a stand. Two in ten Gen Z and millennial employees have already changed industries or jobs to align their careers with their environmental values. Furthermore, a quarter of them are planning to do the same shortly.

The Climate Connection

Environmental sustainability is another major concern for these generations, with climate change anxiety significantly affecting their outlook on both their careers and the companies they support. According to the Deloitte survey, 62% of Gen Z and 59% of millennial respondents reported feeling anxious or worried about climate change within the past month. This concern extends beyond personal habits—they expect the companies they work for and buy from to share their commitment to sustainability.

Gen Z and millennial employees not only expect businesses to limit their own environmental impact, but they also want companies to actively engage in solutions. They are researching employers’ and brands’ environmental practices, and many are willing to pay more for sustainable products. Additionally, young workers want companies to influence broader societal change, believing that the corporate world holds substantial power in driving progress on climate action.

As a result, environmentally responsible businesses are in a better position to attract and retain Gen Z and millennial talent. Employers who fail to act on climate issues or who have a negative environmental impact are at risk of losing out on some of the most passionate, purpose-driven employees.

Mental Health and Well-being

In addition to seeking purpose and environmental consciousness, the mental health and well-being of Gen Z and millennial employees have become critical factors in job satisfaction. The COVID-19 pandemic has further amplified the focus on employee wellness, especially as younger generations grapple with anxiety, stress, and burnout. Many respondents feel their employers are still falling short in providing adequate mental health support, and this is a key reason some opt to leave their jobs.

Organizations that emphasize holistic wellness programs—addressing not only physical health but also financial, emotional, and social well-being—stand a better chance of retaining young employees. Having an open dialogue about mental health, offering flexible work arrangements, and providing resources like counseling or wellness days are some of the ways companies can show they value their employees’ well-being.

Work-life balance is another significant area where Gen Z and millennials are drawing the line. They expect companies to prioritize a healthy balance between work responsibilities and personal life. For many young professionals, the era of glorifying hustle culture is over, and they are unwilling to sacrifice their mental health for the sake of productivity.

The Role of Technology and GenAI

Another major concern for these generations is the rapid rise of Generative AI (GenAI) and its potential impact on their careers. Although many young employees are cautiously optimistic about the ways GenAI might enhance their work and improve their work-life balance, there are still widespread fears about job security in an automated future. According to the survey, the more often respondents use GenAI at work, the more likely they are to feel both excited and anxious about its implications.

While frequent users of GenAI are hopeful that it will free up time and streamline tasks, they also worry that automation could limit opportunities for younger workers, potentially making it harder for them to enter the workforce. This concern is driving Gen Z and millennials to focus on reskilling, as they look for ways to stay relevant and secure in an AI-driven world. Forward-thinking companies should invest in training programs to help these employees adapt to technological advancements while ensuring job security.

Finally, the Ethics Factor

Ethical leadership and corporate responsibility are also critical to the workplace satisfaction of younger employees. This extends beyond just checking compliance boxes; Gen Z and millennials are looking for bold action that addresses moral blind spots in their organizations. They want to know that their work has a net positive impact on society, and they expect transparency and accountability from their leaders.

The demand for ethical leadership ties into the desire for companies to support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Younger generations have grown up in a world that is more diverse and interconnected than ever, and they expect their employers to reflect those values. For Gen Z and millennial employees, a diverse, inclusive workplace is not just a "nice to have"—it’s a non-negotiable.

Read also: Article: Millenials and Gen Z can engage but demand change (peoplemattersglobal.com)

The Key to Gen Z and Millennial Job Satisfaction:

• • Purpose-Driven Work: Employees want to feel that their work contributes to something larger than profit, whether it's social impact, environmental stewardship, or community engagement.

  • Environmental Sustainability: Concerned about climate change, these generations expect businesses to take tangible action on sustainability and provide environmentally responsible options for consumers.

  • Mental Health Support: A robust well-being program that includes mental health resources and work-life balance initiatives is essential for keeping young employees happy and productive.

  • Ethical Leadership and DEI: Younger workers demand transparency, ethical decision-making, and
    genuine efforts toward creating diverse and inclusive workplaces.
    Read also: Article: Indian Gen Zs say they are sorted financially, not worried about planning their retirement (peoplemattersglobal.com)