GenZ Work Ethics: N. Murthy and other prominent figures in the industry support 70-hour workweeks, but the actual work culture appears to be different, particularly among Gen Z employees. This essay investigates the causes of Generation Z’s aversion to working long hours and the necessity of a revised rewards system to inspire them.
GenZ: The Quick Log-Off Generation
GenZ Work Ethics, Prioritising their lives outside of work, Gen Z workers are among the first to log off after their regular shift. This behaviour is a reflection of their unique upbringing and ideals rather than a sign of apathy.
Work, But Not ‘Just’ Work
During regular business hours, Gen Z employees are enthusiastic about their jobs and fast to identify technological solutions. They are not uninterested in their work. Their genuine interests and priorities, however, go beyond the typical 9–5 schedule. Outside of work, they frequently engage in hobbies, music, sports, or social activities.
A Transparent Work Culture
Gen Zers are refreshingly honest and forthright about their priorities and preferences as compared to earlier generations. Although their attitude may be perplexing to managers, they recognise the openness and absence of passive aggression in the workplace.
‘Follow Your Heart’: The Upbringing Factor
The way Gen Z workers behave is largely a result of growing up in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when their parents’ average earnings increased significantly. When Gen Zers are financially stable, they may safely look at many work alternatives until they find what really makes them happy.
Global Influence and Breaking Tradition
Being digital natives from birth, Gen Z has been exposed to many cultures and is more likely to question established norms. Their perspective on life and work has changed as a result of globalisation.
Show Me the Money!
The younger generation of Gen Z sees stagnate fresher earnings and less work possibilities owing to variables like AI and other disruptors, while their parents experienced rising salaries. The State of Working 2023 report emphasises how serious a problem youth unemployment is.
Confidence in the Gig Economy
Even if the nature of work is changing, Gen Zers are still optimistic about their capacity to make money and adjust to the gig economy. Their capacity for adaptation helps explain why they don’t worry about the future.
Motivating GenZ Workers
HR managers recommend changing the reward structure in order to motivate Gen Z workers to devote more time to their work. It may be more efficient to make longer work hours elective and to give higher pay for greater effort than to require longer work hours. Optional benefits and financial incentives could deter moonlighting and encourage Gen Z workers to put in more hours.
Organisations hoping to capitalise on this self-assured and open generation must recognise the distinct work ethic of Gen Z workers and adjust to their priorities and beliefs. The differences between Gen Z tastes and traditional job expectations can be lessened with a flexible approach to pay and work schedules.