Gen Zs seek meaningful work, financial security, study finds

By Chloe Mari A. Hufana, Reporter

GEN Zs, or those born between 1995 and 2012, are reshaping workplace expectations as they value meaningful and fulfilling work, while also prioritizing financial security, a new study from the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) found.

The study, “Motivating Filipino Generation Z employees at work: enablers and outcomes,” noted that Gen Z workers are motivated by familial responsibilities, particularly the need to provide financial support.

This is an intrinsic motivator in the Filipino culture, which drives these workers to look for competitive salaries and benefits to support themselves and their loved ones, it added.

“Family is a significant motivator for their work, as they strive to provide a good life for their loved ones. Some participants (of the study) who are the eldest child also reported feeling a greater sense of responsibility to provide for their family,” a portion of the study, published by Mikee C. Talamayan, Mendiola Teng-Calleja and Jaimee Felice Caringal-Go of the ADMU Department of Psychology and the Ateneo Center for Organization Research and Development in October 2024, read.

Unlike older generations such as Generation X (born in either 1961 or 1965, up to 1979) and Baby Boomers (born after World War II, in 1946 to 1960/1964), who prioritize job security and organizational loyalty, Gen Z workers place a premium on career advancement and skill development, it said.

They also value autonomy, with many preferring hybrid or flexible work arrangements over rigid office settings.

“Compared to Millennials (or Gen Y, born between 1980 and 1994), who put more value on interesting work and collegial work environments, Gen Zs tend to focus on securing their future through savings and investments,” the study found.

Gen Z’s emphasis on meaningful work is further influenced by growing up in a digitally connected world, where social issues and value-driven missions are increasingly visible.

According to the study, employers must focus on fostering career growth, aligning organizational values with broader social impact and providing robust financial benefits for immediate and long-term security to retain the youngest cohort of employees.

Federation of Free Workers (FFW) President Jose Sonny G. Matula said firms must enhance support systems to create a supportive and adaptable work environment that meets Gen Z’s evolving needs while ensuring organizational resilience.

“Provide comprehensive benefits that include mental health support, financial assistance, and career development opportunities to address immediate and long-term concerns,” he told BusinessWorld in a Viber message.

He added that firms must offer not only minimum wages but also living wages, comprehensive benefits, flexible work options (e.g. hybrid), and financial education programs.

He said that strengthened communication can also foster a conducive work environment for Gen Zs.

“Maintain transparent and consistent communication during crises to foster trust and reduce uncertainty among employees.”