Gen Z has joined the workforce, and they are bringing with them a whole new perspective on work life balance and workplace boundaries.
This new generation, born roughly between the late ‘90s and early 2010s, isn’t just entering the workforce. They’re reshaping it. And if you’re hiring (or trying to keep hold of good people), it’s time to pay attention.
What Gen Z Really Cares About
Here’s the thing: Gen Z aren’t lazy, entitled, or “too soft” (despite what the headlines might say). Gen Z at work is simply not willing to sacrifice their mental health or personal values for a job that doesn’t align with who they are.
According to Deloitte’s 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, 77% of Gen Z workers say work-life balance is more important than career advancement. That shift in priorities is changing how organisations think about culture, flexibility, and leadership.
Gen Z at work want:
· Authenticity: workplaces that walk the talk when it comes to culture, diversity, and inclusion.
· Flexibility: not just hybrid working, but genuine trust and autonomy.
· Purpose: they want to know why their work matters, not just what their job title says.
· Growth: constant learning and the opportunity to evolve, not stay stuck in one box.
What That Means for Employers
If you want to attract and retain Gen Z talent, rethink the old-school employer mindset.
· Forget the “we’ve always done it this way” approach. Instead, focus on:
· Building real connections with your team.
· Encouraging open communication and feedback.
· Offering career paths that are flexible and creative.
· Showing your company values in action, not just on your website.
Gen Z can spot inauthenticity from a mile away, and they’ll walk away from it just as quickly.
Why Recruiters Should Be Excited
For recruiters, this shift is great news. It’s forcing businesses to focus on culture fit, growth potential, and long-term engagement, all areas where independent, human-led agencies thrive. Gen Z's work life balance perspective isn't about restriction, it's about shaping a workplace that is adaptable to change and sees that value added is value given.
At Anna Maher Recruitment, we’ve seen that companies who adapt to this mindset don’t just attract Gen Z, they attract better talent overall. Because when people feel seen, trusted, and valued, they don’t just show up for work, they show up for you.
Looking to attract the next generation of talent? Get in touch with Anna Maher Recruitment today and let’s build a recruitment strategy that reflects your culture, values, and long-term goals.