The traditional 9-to-5 workday, hierarchical management structures, and rigid office environments are fading fast. As Gen Z and Millennials become a significant portion of the workforce, they’re driving change and redefining workplace norms.
Based on a PapersOwl study, this article explores eight ways these generations are redefining workplace expectations.
Career Catfishing
Career catfishing, the act of accepting a job offer but then never showing up or quitting shortly after starting, has become a trend among Gen Z and young Millennials. With only 37% unfamiliar with the term, its growing prevalence is apparent.
A surprising 29% of this age group have admitted to engaging in this practice. The motivations behind this behavior are varied, including exploring the job market, which accounts for 57%, gaining interview experience, representing 33%, and having negotiated a better offer, which makes up 44%. Interestingly, 21% engaged in this behavior due to peer influence or dares.
Coffee Badging
Coffee badging is a workplace trend where employees briefly show up at their office to get their badge scanned before working remotely for the rest of the day. This trend is becoming increasingly common among Gen Z and Millennials. While 66% say they like coffee badging because they desire flexibility, 32% want to avoid distractions, and 22% want to stay away from unproductive office environments.
A substantial 41% simply prefer to work remotely. While some older managers may view this as disobedience, coffee badging is about finding an environment that maximizes productivity and comfort for many young professionals.
Workplace Cheating
Workplace cheating, or taking shortcuts, appears to be the new normal, with a staggering 95% of young professionals considering such actions acceptable. Specifically, 34% reported clocking out early, 27% admitted to calling in sick when not ill, and 18% started work late without notice.
Additionally, 16% engaged in quiet quitting, 14% used AI to complete tasks, and 11% took naps during remote work. Further, 11% logged more hours than they worked, and 10% used company resources for personal projects. These behaviors don’t necessarily mean that Gen Z or Millenial employees are lazy. It reflects a trend among young employees seeking flexibility and efficiency during workdays.
Quiet Vacationing
Millennials and Generation Z employees often take time off without informing their managers while maintaining the illusion of working. Known as quiet vacationing, this new trend has seen a significant rise recently. Around 51% of young professionals admit to taking time off quietly up to three times in the past year, with 12% doing so even more frequently.
The primary drivers behind this trend are mental strain and burnout, which account for 46%, the inability to take personal time off (PTO) for family matters, representing 36%, and limited or nonexistent PTO, making up 31%. Additionally, 28% cited difficulty getting PTO requests approved as a contributing factor. This shows that organizations need to make the workplace more supportive and flexible.
Changing Work Values
Millennials and Generation Z are bringing about a significant change in work values, which is reflected in the rise of workplace “cheating” and unconventional time-off practices. The younger workforce prioritizes flexibility, autonomy, and mental well-being over traditional job loyalty.
They look for work-life balance, independence to work from any location, prioritized mental health, and flexible work schedules in their job. Interestingly, a significant 42% want to avoid interaction and confrontation with colleagues. Remote work, freelancing platforms, and AI have made alternative career paths more accessible, reducing reliance on traditional employment.
Social Media
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a big role in shaping how Gen Z and Millennials see work. They showcase contrasting narratives: “hustle culture,” which glorifies constant productivity, and the “soft life” trend, which emphasizes mental health and leisure.
Peer validation through likes and comments on social media platforms reinforces the idea that prioritizes personal happiness over traditional job loyalty. This digital influence is driving a generational shift in how young professionals view work and self-worth.
Factors That Motivate
Understanding Gen Z and millennial employees’ motivations is essential for employers who want to engage and retain these young workers. While pay raises remain a top motivator at 50%, positive and less toxic work environments are also highly valued.
Family-related factors, recognition for efforts, and the opportunity to overcome challenges also play significant roles. Employers and young job seekers must openly communicate their needs and expectations to deal with trends like career catfishing, workplace cheating, and quiet vacationing and foster a mutually beneficial work relationship.
The Path Forward
The evolving work values and behaviors of Gen Z and Millennials will shape the future of hiring and work environments. It will likely lead to more hybrid models and flexible PTO policies. To adapt, employers should foster open communication, prioritize mental health, and offer flexibility to reduce workplace cheating.
Creating positive work cultures that recognize employee contributions, support growth, and maintain balance is more effective than strict time-logging, daily reports, or screen-sharing. Encouraging these positive changes will ensure a more engaged and productive workforce.
