In the evolving world of work, the motivations driving job searches are shifting. The next generations of workers, particularly Millennials and Generation Z, are seeking purpose more than money and security. This article explores this trend, highlighting how these generations are redefining the job search landscape.
The Changing Landscape of Job Search Motivations
Traditionally, job search motivations were largely driven by financial security and job stability. However, recent research suggests that people are increasingly seeking purpose and meaning from their work [1] [2]. This shift is particularly pronounced among Millennials and Generation Z.
Millennials, often more concerned with job fulfillment and happiness, are less likely to stay loyal to one organization for their entire career [3]. They stand out for their interest in employee growth, development, and their sense of justice and fairness [4]. When searching for a job, they are concerned about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices, particularly in relation to environmental issues [5]. They want a job that is meaningful and satisfying, and they expect a company’s values and mission to be a higher priority than the profit motive of the bottom line [6].
Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012 [7], and making up 32% of the global population in 2023 [8], also prioritizes purpose in their job search. They seek employers who offer opportunities for growth, value diversity and inclusion, and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility [9] [10].
The Role of Tech and Job-Hopping
The tech industry, a sector where Millennials constitute a significant portion of the workforce [11], is a prime example of this shift in job search motivations. In 2016, almost 80% of the workforce of PwC firms were Millennials [12]. However, contrary to popular belief, Millennials may not be the job hoppers they are often accused of being. Research suggests that Millennial workers are just as likely to stick with their employers as Gen Xers were when they were young adults [13].
The Search for Meaning and Happiness
Millennials and Generation Z are not just looking for jobs; they are seeking meaningful work experiences. They expect to have access to information with transparency and demand new challenges [14] [15]. They want their relationship with management to be based more on friendship than on authority, as in previous generations [16]. They also value work-life balance, with 71% of Millennial employees reporting that their work demands interfere with their personal lives [17].
The Future of Job Search
The job search landscape is changing, with Millennials and Generation Z leading the way. They are job-hopping in search of meaning [18], driven by the escape motive (changing jobs to escape disliked work environments) and the advancement motive (changing jobs as a means of career advancement) [19]. The top four reasons for changing jobs among these generations are the job itself, the need for higher compensation, lack of career growth and learning opportunities, and an unfavorable organizational culture [20].
As the workforce continues to evolve, understanding these changing job search motivations is crucial for organizations looking to attract and retain talent. The next generations of workers are not just looking for a paycheck; they are seeking purpose, meaning, and a sense of belonging in their work.
References
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Arredondo-Trapero, F. G., Maldonado-Cervantes, M. I., Varela-Ruiz, M., & Díaz-Pérez, C. (2017). Differences on Self-perception Millennial and Generation X, Future Physicians.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Wolfram Alpha. (n.d.). Generation Z birth years. Retrieved from https://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=Generation+Z+birth+years
Wolfram Alpha. (n.d.). Generation Z age range. Retrieved from https://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=Generation+Z+age+range
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Deloitte. (n.d.). Understanding Generation Z in the workplace. Retrieved from https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/consumer-business/articles/understanding-generation-z-in-the-workplace.html
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PwC. (2013). PwC’s NextGen: A global generational study. Retrieved from https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/hr-management-services/pdf/pwc-nextgen-study-2013.pdf
Fry, R. (2017). Millennials aren’t job-hopping any faster than Generation X did. Retrieved from https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA541811604&sid=googleScholar&v=2.1&it=r&linkaccess=abs&issn=00223905&p=AONE&sw=w&userGroupName=anon%7Eeecbf38a
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PwC. (2013). PwC’s NextGen: A global generational study. Retrieved from https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/hr-management-services/pdf/pwc-nextgen-study-2013.pdf
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