Gen Z's Ideal Workplace

Gen Z is ahead of the curve when it comes to innovation. This young and growing cohort of the workforce thrives on flexibility, mobility and a unique sense of identity that eschews the labels and stereotypes of previous generations. So what do members of this generation want from their ideal workplace? 

Face Time

Gen Zers were born between the late 1990s and early 2010s. They're entering a vastly different office environment than millennials or other previous generations did. Many Gen Z workers are starting their careers remotely, facing a steep learning curve while physically separated from their coworkers. That's creating a fear of missing out, especially on opportunities for mentoring, workplace camaraderie and office snacks. 

Nearly 70% of Gen Z employees feel they're behind some of their coworkers and peers because they didn't have the traditional office experience, according to research conducted in the Pacific Northwest by Washington State University. The majority of surveyed Gen Zers believe the fastest way to get promoted is to work at the office at least three days each week, according to research from the Center for Generational Kinetics. 

About 40% of college students and recent graduates prefer fully in-person work. Roughly another 40% want a hybrid workplace, and about 20% said they want to work fully remotely, according to Generation Lab.  

Elevated Meals

Being a foodie is now a central part of Gen Z's identity, a study by generational insights group Cassandra says. But beyond feeding the social media beast, Gen Zers are also prioritizing nutrition and sustainability in their food choices.  

Combined with this generation's preference for a flexible office schedule and fluency in mobile tech, Gen Zers can benefit from restaurant-to-office catering and digitally-focused delivery platforms like Foodee. Employees get a customizable selection of food options on their smartphones, from local restaurants they love, and teams can collaborate over a shared meal without missing a beat during their day.  

Gen Zers surveyed by Cassandra said what they eat is indicative of who they are. They're eager for unique culinary experiences, and many are self-taught chefs with a desire to try new things.  

But they also recognize that the climate crisis is likely to impact what they eat, more than what they wear or how they travel. Gen Zers are gravitating toward plant-based food, seasonal eating and reducing waste as they develop their personal preferences, according to Cassandra. 

A Sense of Purpose

The oldest members of Gen Z, who are starting to enter the world of work, are rethinking everything, including what's important in their work lives as well as their personal values. 

Though salary is an important factor, Gen Z values salary less than every other generation, according to research from Deloitte and the Network of Executive Women. What's more important to this generation is knowing an employer will be a good global citizen and show a commitment to resolving societal challenges like climate change and hunger.  

About 80% of Gen Z workers surveyed by Washington State University said they only want to work for a company whose values align with their own. In particular, diversity, equity and inclusion policies are highly important to Gen Zers, and companies without them could lose out on Gen Z applicants. Gen Z is significantly more likely than their millennial predecessors to apply to a company that supports DE&I, according to the Center for Generational Kinetics. 

What's Next

Gen Z wants a different experience in the workplace, whether it's at home, in an office or in a co-working space. Employers can step up to their expectations with flexible work schedules, digitally-enabled, elevated meals and a sense of purpose.  

David Bailey, CEO, Sodexo Corporate Services North America, says:

Elevate the workplace experience for all employees. Contact us to learn more about our food solutions.

• Good Eating Company sets the standard in farm-to-office dining experience personalized for your employees and thoughtfully integrated with sustainability.
• Foodee provides digital ordering of meals from the best local restaurants delivered for your meeting, happy hour or workplace celebration.
• Nourish is a health-driven approach to menu creation, created on-site or delivered.
• For Five Coffee Roasters brings handcrafted beverages sourced from coffee producers around the world, plus enticing entrees and to-go snacks in a sophisticated setting.