Generation Z (Gen Z) refers to individuals born from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s. This generation grew up amid rapid technological developments, giving them easy access to information and high expectations of the work environment. They are very critical and are constantly exposed to the latest information.
One of the characteristics of Gen Z is their tendency to be very selective in choosing jobs, or known as picky job seekers. This attitude often raises concerns among parents—mostly from the Baby Boomers or Generation X—thus triggering a sharp difference of opinion between the two generations.
How Generation Z Views Work
The baby boomer‘s generation and generation X view work as an obligation to meet their basic needs and financial stability. They also care less about passion. However, generation Z has a different view. For this generation, work is not just about earning an income. The balance between professional and personal life, the freedom to determine how to work, and meaningful work are equally important (in fact, many consider it more important than income).
No wonder parents are anxious when their children become choosy at work (choosy here means being too picky and demanding). Moreover, Generation Z often turns down jobs for reasons that parents don’t find reasonable. For example, the location of the job is too far away, the work culture is not in line with personal values, and the salary is still low (even though their abilities have not been proven). Parents worry that their children’s picky attitudes will actually hinder their career and professional development. There are also concerns that Gen Z’s financial condition is unstable.
Why are Many Gen Z-ers Picky About Work?
Technological advances have resulted in Generation Z being more exposed to information than their parents’ generation. Gen Z is also more technologically literate. They easily search for information about companies or organizations that need employees, and then compare these organizations or companies with others. This information comes from employee reviews, social media posts, and online news sites. As a result, they are not quick to trust information that only one party has provided.
Another factor is the view that the investment made in education should be returned in the form of a high salary and suitable work. Otherwise, they are willing to be unemployed for longer.
In recent years, mental health has received increasing attention, especially since the world was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. Gen Zers are reluctant to work in places where they feel burnout or have to sacrifice a lot of personal time. For them, work is not just about earning an income to meet their needs. More than that, work should also bring happiness.
Gen Z is the generation most exposed to social media. They are easily fascinated by the success stories displayed on TikTok and Instagram. For example, young people who have successfully raised start-ups or freelancers who have successfully earned a lot of money. From this, they see that success can come faster.
Working as an ordinary employee is considered less likely to bring success quickly. They also have the view that to be successful, one does not have to be an employee and work in an office. Technological developments make the way, time, and location of work more flexible.
The Reality is Not as Beautiful as Hope
Of course, there is no prohibition on choosing jobs. However, the reality is not as beautiful as hope. There is a reality that is currently being faced. Every year, the number of new graduate increases. However, the jobs offered by the business world are not like that. Waiting too long for their dream job makes Gen Z lose opportunities to gain experience.
Another reality to keep in mind is that high salaries are directly proportional to experience and competence. If you want to earn a high salary, be prepared to sacrifice your thoughts, energy, and time at work. Not to mention the unfavourable economic conditions, marked by the rampant layoffs. Looking at this reality, having a job, even if it is not the dream job, is still better. Most importantly, Generation Z continues to strive to improve their skills and competencies.
So What is The Attitude of Parents?
Parents must understand that today’s world of work is far different from their time. The current reality must be accepted while understanding the aspirations of Generation Z. Instead of immediately blaming them, listen first to their reasons for refusing job offers. In this way, parents will understand the Gen Z perspective.
Parents can help strategize a Gen Z career. This includes explaining the importance of work experience and the steps that can be taken to achieve their dream job. It is important to emphasize that achieving your dream job takes time and effort, it cannot be instantaneous. There is a process that must be followed. Experience can certainly be gained from various sources, such as internships, freelance projects, or temporary jobs.
