Gen-Zs’ top benefits when looking for a job include Friday afternoons off, access to a life coach, plant-based milk options, access to healthy food and a good coffee machine, according to a study.
A survey of 2,000 18–29-year-olds in November showed that the new kids on the block are less focused on pensions and a company car and more focused on physical and mental wellbeing.
Unsurprisingly, flexible working came in at number one, with 45% saying it was the top benefit they look for, followed by a day off on your birthday (39%), work from home twice a week (25%), a shower in the office (13%), access to a life coach (15%) and 9% want to bring their dog to the office.
15% of Gen Z’s want every Friday afternoon off, 26% want a gym membership and 20% deem a relaxed dress code a must.
Food is seen major perk for the age group, with 30% saying team lunches and dinners out were important, while 18% want free fruit every day.
The vast majority (85%) said it is important for them to have access to healthy meals at work.
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Mental health was also an important factor, with 15% saying they want access to a life coach or psychotherapist, complimentary yoga sessions (7% ) and a meditation room (5%).
Two thirds (64%) of youngsters believe a happy working environment is more important than a massive salary, with more than half (57%) saying that better nutrition and mental health perks are more important than benefits such as laptops, company cars and pension plans.
Six in ten (61%) agree that workers today have different expectations of benefits than previous generations did, with one in two (53%) agreeing that young people can be unfairly judged for having high standards when it comes to their job and working environment.
Notably, nine in ten believe that employers need to be more creative in terms of the working environment and perks they offer if they want to keep people happy in the modern age.
Over a third admit that their parents or older people don’t take them seriously when they express a desire for certain perks or standards in a place of work.
Read more: Employees want bosses to pay for their commute to the office
Linda Blank, COO, Feedr, which conducted the research said: “There has been a lot of negativity around Gen Z’s expectations of work, however, they are the future workforce and it’s important to understand what matters to them.
“The research shows that young people want to feel supported, valued and respected in the workplace by employers who understand the benefits they want and value, from nutritious food to access to mental health support.
“Listening to employees and reacting to their needs can go a long way in attracting & retaining top talent and supporting a great employee experience."
HERE IS THE FULL LIST OF GEN-Z’S TOP DEMANDS FROM A JOB: