Gen Z in the Workforce: What Do They Really Want?

Generation Z, 'Gen Z', born between 1997 and 2012, is officially the newest force in the workplace. With millions of them entering full time employment, they're not just adapting to workplace culture, they're reshaping it. Is your HR strategy evolving with them in mind? If not, now's the time to rethink how your business engages this emerging talent.

At HealthBoxHR (HBHR), our platform isn't just built for Gen Z, it's designed for the modern workforce as a whole. But when it comes to attracting and retaining Gen Z employees, there are some key trends worth paying attention to.

They value flexibility, not just as a benefit, but as a baseline. They prioritise how, when and where they work, and they care about outcomes more than hours. The traditional 9 to 5 model is quickly becoming outdated.

HBHR fully supports this shift, with smart scheduling tools, time tracking, and performance visibility. Managers can stay connected to team performance without micromanaging. It's a system designed for autonomy, accountability, and trust.

Mental health and wellbeing are also front and centre. Gen Z is more open about these topics than any generation before them, and they expect genuine support. With HBHR's built-in wellbeing tracking and mood survey features, you can stay attuned to your team's needs and intervene early before small issues turn into bigger problems. Our data-led insights empower managers to support their people in a meaningful way.

Gen Z also values honest feedback and career development. They don't want to wait for an annual review to know where they stand, they want regular check-ins, recognition, and a clear path forward. They want to feel connected to their role and see how they're contributing to the bigger picture. HBHR makes that easy, with tools that support continuous feedback and transparency around growth.

Technology is another dealbreaker. Gen Z has grown up with fast, intuitive digital experiences, and they expect the same from their workplace tools. Clunky, manual HR and payroll systems are an instant turn off. They expect work tech to feel like the apps they use every day.

With our sleek mobile app and user-friendly interface, HBHR gives your team 24/7 access to HR essentials, from booking leave to checking payslips or wellbeing insights, anytime, anywhere.

In summary, having Gen Z in your workforce is about rethinking how you approach engagement, communication, and culture. And while their expectations may feel new, meeting them doesn't have to mean overhauling your entire operation. HBHR helps you modernise your employee experience with tools that are ready for what's next for Gen Z, and for everyone else, too.

Want to see how HBHR can help you attract and retain a new generation of talent while supporting the team you already have? Book a free DEMO today