The desires of youth in the workplace extend beyond mere remuneration
In a recent survey conducted in Piemonte Orientale, the "Youth and Work" study revealed that young people consider several factors beyond salary when selecting a job.
The survey, supported by the Camera di commercio Monte Rosa, Laghi, Alto Piemonte, Confartigianato Imprese Piemonte Orientale, and Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), found that personal growth and development opportunities are highly valued. Access to learning and skill-building, both technical and soft skills, ranked very high among Gen Z and millennials.
Flexible working arrangements, such as flexible schedules and options for remote work or hybrid models, were also deemed essential. Lack of flexibility was identified as a common reason for leaving jobs.
The work environment and culture were also important considerations, with emphasis on honesty, transparency, ethical alignment, and mentorship. Many young workers prioritize workplace values that align with their own ethics and want clear career growth pathways supported through mentorship.
Job security and stability are less emphasized compared to previous generations but still matter. Concerns about AI and automation impact on job stability also influence their choices.
Safety at work is generally an important consideration, though it is often included within broader concerns about wellbeing, physical and mental health support, and organizational transparency.
Contractual stability, such as clear employment terms and permanent contracts, are factors, but flexibility and opportunity for development may weigh more heavily for many.
Free time and work-life balance are highly valued. Young people want roles that allow them sufficient free time rather than excess hours or burnout risk.
However, the logistics and transport sector was associated with negative aspects like a sense of loneliness and hard work by the surveyed young people. Among the criticisms of the job of heavy goods vehicle driver, the survey found traffic, lack of career prospects, and low regard by the client.
Rossano Denetto, a functionary of Confartigianato Imprese Piemonte Orientale, suggested that a new regulation of driving and rest times could help many young people approach the world of road transport.
The survey also found that 57.5% of the surveyed young people believe that accessibility of information could speed up the job search. Additionally, 56.6% of the respondents believe that support for writing their curriculum vitae could aid in their job search.
In conclusion, the "Youth and Work" survey highlights that salary is not the only factor young people consider when choosing a job. Instead, Gen Z and millennials prioritize growth opportunities, supportive and ethical work environments, flexible work conditions, and a healthy work-life balance when evaluating jobs. Job security concerns exist but are often intertwined with worries about future technological disruptions like AI.
Young people consider education-and-self-development opportunities, such as access to learning and skill-building, to be highly valuable when selecting a job. This prioritization aligns with their focus on personal-growth and is supported by a desire for flexible working arrangements that promote work-life balance.
