Opinion: Gen Z Wants More Than A Job, They Want Purpose — And That’s A Good Thing

By Manjari Das

Every generation brings changes, and with every change comes the first time. This leads to transformation in society and redefine the workplaces to the core. But generational stereotypes — shaped by attitudes, behaviors, priorities and expectations — tend to oversimplify even the sensitivity of realities. Like Gen Z is labelled as entitled, oversensitive, screen-addicted or a generation of job-hoppers.

So, what is new in Gen Z?

They are the first generation of digital immigrants, diverse, socially aware, and individualistic and inclusive. They were raised in homes where discussions about equitable pay, diversity and work-life balance were mainstay. They have witnessed the unhappiness of their parents, who sacrificed personal well-being for job security, making them advocate for meaningful work, competitive pay, and work-life balance. The critics stereotyped them as entitlement, it helps the organisations to promote a fairer and people-centred workplace.

Unlike previous generations who were stuck in the same jobs for decades under the excise of “loyalty”, Gen Z values lifelong learning and career development. The older generation is unaware of upskilling, and many now find themselves stagnant in careers — teaching Gen Z the value of perpetual learning and adaptability. Gen Z demands development and purpose from their organisations and pushes them to change — or they move on. Is it 'job- hopping'? Is it truly quitting the job, or simply a long overdue reset of workplace demands?

No Generation Is Burden To Workplace, And Gen Z Not An Exception

Today, workplace expectations are more than just getting ahead in your career. It’s also about creating a culture that keeps employees comfortable and supported.

Gen Z wants a workplace secure for mental health, emotional intelligence and extremely inclusive. Unlike the generations before them, who often just tolerated unhealthy environments and worked in toxic workplaces in silence, Gen Z isn’t afraid to speak up about prioritising well-being and psychological safety. This is the time that organisations should be aware of such shift, and do not miss the opportunity to cultivate healthier, and supportive work environments beneficial for every generation.

And while Gen Z is moving culture in new directions now, they are also, to a very large extent, determining the future of work in another meaningful way: technology.

Technology is at the heart of any modern workplace, and Gen Z’s comfort with digital tools, automation and online platforms works in its favour. By being able to navigate digital spaces with ease, organisations can harness innovation, efficiency and transformation at a much faster pace. But the million-dollar question is: Are they screen-glue addicts, or just tech-savvy? The challenge for the companies is to manage the right balance between their capabilities through tech while also ensuring strengthened human connection and collaboration, rather than detracting from it.

Do we go to the workplace to compete with other generations? Or is it a place for mutual respect and learning? It is the responsibility of the leaders to make a multi-generational organization inclusive and diverse. No generation can be a burden to the workplace and Gen Z is not an exception — they are the gift! Stereotypes are derogatory and biased — leaders should make the organisation agile and resilient enough to reap the benefits of every generation. It is not hiring Gen-z to accommodate — but rather evolve. Organisations that effectively harness the potential of Gen Z can cultivate a more collaborative, innovative, and high-performing workforce.

So, the question is, can the heads of corporations afford not to hire Gen Z talent?

Manjari Das is Associate Vice President, WD Partners (I) Pvt. Ltd.

business