April 2025
Employees are no longer investing in workplace friendships, with less than 25% staying in their roles because of coworkers and over half actively avoiding forming bonds. Job volatility, remote work, and changing values around work-life boundaries may all be contributing factors. Workplace friendships have been shown to increase performance and quality of life. Rather than abandoning social bonds, employees should be intentional about their office friendships and adopt values that work for them. (Worklife)
Portents of a recession have every generation responding with anxiety and their own individual methods of coping. Gen Zers increasingly believe that side-gigs are necessary; millennials’ could waylay big milestones like homeownership and starting a family; Gen Xers may enter triage mode, bearing the brunt of it while managing families and mortgages, and Boomers may have to tighten their belts to maintain their retirement plans. (Forbes)
In response to mass layoffs and job insecurity, Gen Zers are embracing “work uniforms”—a minimalist, Steve Jobs-like garb. This TikTok trend is not just about fashion, but about regaining control, reducing decision fatigue, and presenting a safe, professional image in a time where employees see their careers as fragile. (Fortune)
Polyworking is not a blip, but a strategy born from economic pressure and the erosion of the traditional career. Over half of millennials work more than one job, with 24% working three jobs, and 33% juggling four or more. While living on one salary is still the norm, it is not always the ideal. Companies should ask what would make their workplace the one to commit to. (The Guardian)
A workplace’s background music may be more beneficial as a productivity tool for employees rather than ambiance for customers. “Music misfit” can significantly affect employee satisfaction, as well as lead to fatigue and poor focus. Companies may more heavily consider what they choose to play over the speakers, or even ask for employee input if they can. (Journal of Applied Psychology)
Many raised in times of recession and job loss are suffering from ‘money dysmorphia’, skimping on groceries without needing to or throwing lavish parties way over their budget. Fully 43% of Gen Z reports experiencing money dysmorphia and the average credit card debt for said generation is $3,500. Employers can help alleviate financial stress through professional development opportunities focused on money management. (The New York Times)
Mentorship is an imperative strategy for retaining Gen Z employees, who prioritize growth and career purpose. The pandemic underscored the value of connection and now intentional work relationships are more vital than ever. In addition to thorough onboarding and career-pathing plans, leaders should take on mentor roles to foster trust and collaboration to the benefit of their employees and themselves. (U.S. News & World Report)