Work-Life Balance And Job Satisfaction More Important For Gen Z Workers Over Salary, Says Study

The study by the talent platform Unstop surveyed more than 5,350 Gen Z employees along with 500 HR professionals and found that priorities in the corporate life are increasingly changing

The outlook to employment is changing massively amongst the newer generations. Generation Z employees are now paying more attention to job satisfaction and work-life balance than just bringing in a higher income from their jobs, the latest study by Unstop revealed.

The study by the talent platform surveyed more than 5,350 Gen Z employees along with 500 HR professionals and found that priorities in the corporate life are increasingly changing. The survey found that 72 per cent of Gen Z workers now prioritise job satisfaction over salary, reported Moneycontrol. 

Further, 77 per cent of the survey respondents said that they would rather work for a firm that provides them growth and development avenues instead of higher income. These findings indicate that workplace priorities have shifted majorly for the younger generations as compared to earlier generations which placed more emphasis on long-term job stability and salary.

What Matters When Switching Jobs?

The study also found that almost half of Gen Z professionals, nearly 47 per cent, are thinking of switching jobs in the next two years to look for meaningful and fulfilling work. About 47 per cent respondents said that work-life balance was a key factor when evaluating job opportunities.

In terms of factors behind job switch, the study found a disconnect between HR professionals and Gen Z employees. While 78 per cent of Gen Z respondents said career growth was the main motivation behind changing jobs, 71 per cent of HR professionals stated that higher wages drove them to opt for different opportunities. Meanwhile, only 25 per cent of the Gen Z workers said salary was the biggest priority for them.

Career Advancement

Regarding career growth, Gen Z emerged keen on seeking a balance between positive company culture and substantial development opportunities. While 44 per cent HR professionals said that company culture would be the top priority for Gen Z, however, the study showed career growth and development is an equally important factor for the younger generation.

“For the youngest generation in the workforce, work isn't just a place you go to every day to get your account credited regularly. It has to fit into several key aspects of your life seamlessly,” Ankit Aggarwal, founder and CEO, Unstop noted.