A wave of Gen Zers is stepping into the workforce, and their entrance is shaping the future of work, paving the way for a surge in entrepreneurship and a call for flexibility in work models. Recent studies from ZenBusiness and NinjaOne offer insights into the work attitudes, preferences, and expectations of this tech-savvy generation.
Gen Z’s Entrepreneurial Spirit
A new study by ZenBusiness reveals a novel mindset among Gen Zers—those between the ages of 18 and 25—with a staggering 93% of them showing interest in exploring business ownership. The entrepreneurial spirit is seemingly vibrant in this generation, with 84% of Gen Zers selecting entrepreneurship as the most exciting of 12 career paths. In fact, 75% of Gen Zers aim to ultimately become entrepreneurs. Key takeaways from ZenBusiness’s study include: Traditional career paths that were open to their parents seem closed for 72% of Gen Zers surveyed. A majority of 86% believe they can’t rely on old strategies to progress in their careers. A significant 90% desire to create something new and better for the world.
Gen Z and Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is a concept embraced by more than half of Gen Z respondents, and 82% believe that neurodiverse individuals are better suited to entrepreneurship than a traditional career. The study indicates that this might be one of the reasons Gen Zers are more inclined towards starting businesses, as they perceive the world differently.
The Role of Social Media and Tech
Social media plays a significant role in shaping Gen Z’s entrepreneurial aspirations. As social media has paved the way for a new class of entrepreneurs—creators—84% of Gen Z respondents see ‘creator’ as the most accessible career, with entrepreneurship following closely at 78%. The study found that a significant 80% believe their generation possesses superior entrepreneurial skills compared to their parent’s generation. Furthermore, 69% of Gen Zers report learning about entrepreneurship through “videos or self-directed research.”
Gen Z’s Work Preferences
In the face of rapid evolution in work models over the past three years—prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic—Gen Z’s preferences have skewed towards flexibility. According to the study conducted by NinjaOne, 55% of Gen Z students graduating this year would prefer a remote or hybrid work model, with 23% favoring remote work and 32% leaning towards hybrid work. Significantly, 38% cited the necessity to work from the office five days a week as a significant barrier to their dream job. Key findings from NinjaOne’s study include: A majority of 94% consider a positive IT onboarding experience to be crucial. Gen Z is demanding modern tools that support their work—51% said they would quit if the job did not have the right tools, technology, and processes to help them stay connected, either in a traditional office or a remote/hybrid space.
Modernizing IT Support for a Global Hybrid Workforce
As the future of work hangs in the balance, there is a need for organizations to modernize how IT supports a global hybrid workforce, says Shay Mowlem, chief marketing and strategy officer, NinjaOne. The new generation of the workforce is clear about their needs, which include flexible work models, digital accessibility, and a positive IT onboarding experience. Employers who wish to attract and retain this new talent must meet these expectations effectively. In conclusion, it’s evident that Gen Z is bringing entrepreneurial energy and demand for flexible work models into the workforce. The onus is now on companies to adapt their traditional work models and strategies to create a work environment that matches this generation’s innovative spirit and preferences. For more in-depth insights into Gen Z’s entrepreneurial spirit and work preferences, check out the full studies by ZenBusiness and NinjaOne.
