What are the top factors that influence job satisfaction for Gen Z and Millennials?

How the workplace is being reshaped

What are the top factors that influence job satisfaction for Gen Z and Millennials?

A new survey from Nestlé Canada has shed light on the main factors that influence Gen Z and Millennial job satisfaction in today’s workplace. The survey of over 1,100 Canadian professionals aged 20 to 35 has found that 93 percent of Gen Z and Millennials prefer to work for organizations that are agile, meaning that they support quick and flexible decision-making.

Furthermore, 96 percent believe that the best workplaces are those that reward courage and foster a work environment that allows employees to share innovative ideas. However, only 55 percent of respondents feel that their current employers embrace these principles. 

“Gen Z and Millennials are reshaping workplace norms, compelling leaders to adjust to workplace cultural shifts,” says John Carmichael, president and CEO of Nestlé Canada.

The workplace that Gen Z and Millennials want

The survey found that Gen Z and Millennials who are considering leaving their jobs express dissatisfaction with their employer’s ability to be agile (77 percent), insufficient promotion of courage (78 percent), and a lack of trust from their employer (72 percent).

 Moreover, 78 percent of unsatisfied Gen Z and Millennials feel that their employer does not empower them, 81 percent believe their employer isn't agile at all, and 84 percent think their employer discourages sharing bold and new ideas. More than half (69 percent) feel that their employer does not provide the level of trust they need.

“In this constantly changing marketplace, the need for agility and courageous action is greater than ever,” says Carmichael. “These attributes aren't just aspirations for employees; they're what they expect from their employers and the culture they want to immerse themselves in.”

Carmichael stresses the importance of proactively shaping company culture to attract and retain top talent, and especially the crucial part that leaders play in it.

“The results of our surveys affirm that our approach – founded on agility, courage, and trust – resonates with our employees and aligns with the evolving expectations of Gen Z and Millennials who seek empowering and inclusive workplace cultures,” he adds.