Gen Z in India Prioritises Pay, Flexibility, and Purpose Over Traditional Long-Term Jobs

Young professionals in India are prioritising factors such as salary, flexibility, and purpose over traditional long-term roles, according to a recent report. Randstad India's report, "The GenZ Workplace Blueprint," highlights how Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2007, is reshaping workplace norms. This generation values financial security but also seeks autonomy, adaptability, and alignment with personal values.

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Employers who incorporate lifelong learning, inclusive cultures, and flexible policies will not only attract but also retain Gen Z talent. Viswanath PS, MD & CEO of Randstad India, emphasised that these strategies will help build resilient and future-ready businesses. As Gen Z becomes a larger part of India's workforce, companies must adapt their talent strategies and workplace culture to meet evolving expectations.

Gen Z's Work Preferences

The report reveals that better pay, flexible hours, and work-life balance are more appealing to Gen Z than traditional perks like extra leave. Additionally, opportunities for travel and the ability to work remotely abroad are significant retention drivers. The findings are based on a survey of 750 Indian respondents, shedding light on work preferences and career mindsets.

Milind Shah, Managing Director of Randstad Digital India, noted the growing preference among Indian Gen Z for full-time jobs with side hustles. He stated that companies fostering a mix of technical excellence and personal autonomy will attract top tech talent from this generation.

AI Enthusiasm Among Gen Z

The report indicates that approximately 82% of Gen Z are enthusiastic about AI in the workplace, with 83% using it for problem-solving. However, there is concern about AI's long-term impact on jobs, with 44% expressing worry—more than older generations. Despite this concern, 52% of Gen Z actively learn through AI tools alongside on-the-job training and peer learning.

Unlike previous generations focused on tenure, Gen Z seeks employers who invest in their growth and respect their need for balance. This shift presents an opportunity for organisations to evolve rather than a challenge. The report underscores the importance of adapting to these changing dynamics to engage effectively with this new workforce.

With inputs from PTI