Published On: 09.06.16 | 

By: 6983

Generation Z will out-earn and outwork the rest of us

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Generation Z, which includes those currently in college, is demonstrating a work ethic and values more in line with older generations than their millennial peers. (iStock)

Move over millennials, there’s a new workaholic generation in town.

Generation Z, currently in school and the early years of college, is more willing to work longer hours and weekends than its elders, according to a report by Monster Worldwide Inc., the job-search firm. The data was gathered in January by research agency TNS, which surveyed members of Generation Z from ages 15 to 20.

Generation Z is showing a willingness to work longer hours for upward mobility and more pay. (iStock)

Generation Z is showing a willingness to work longer hours for upward mobility and more pay. (iStock)

Of more than 2,000 people surveyed, 58 percent of Generation Zers said they would come into work on evenings and weekends in exchange for a bigger paycheck, compared with 45 percent of millennials, 40 percent of Generation X and 33 percent of boomers.

That’s not entirely surprising: They’ve got youth on their side and are generally not burdened with child-care responsibilities that make working irregular hours difficult for their generational predecessors.

Among the generations, Zers surveyed were the most motivated by money, although 74 percent of them said work should have a greater purpose than earning a salary, compared to 45 percent of millennials, 40 percent of Generation X and 33 percent of boomers.

Brands seeking to recruit young blood should consider forgoing the beer fridge and pingpong table in exchange for a good old-fashioned health plan. While Gen Z might be more energetic and money-hungry than the rest, its first job requirements are reminiscent of generations before them. Seventy percent of those surveyed said their top priority is health insurance, followed by a competitive wage, a boss they respect, room for growth and parental leave.