Summary - Deep Dive: Gen-Z paradox
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Gen-Z is stepping onto the work floor with big ambitions, bold ideas, and a bundle of contradictions. They crave stability but switch jobs fast. They value autonomy yet seek deep connection. They’re confident in their skills but anxious about the future.
Instead of just presenting the findings of an extensive research, Randstad wanted the audience to experience them for themselves to really understand what goes on in the minds of this generation. In three monologues performed by an actress, the Deep Dive revealed the paradoxes of this generation and the urgent need for employers to truly listen, adapt, and co-create the future of work.
“A contract doesn’t buy my loyalty. I want my boss to trust me - to achieve something meaningful and be valued for it.”
3 Key Insights
- Clarity & growth matter. Gen-Z wants clear career paths, recognition for new skills, and room to experiment.
- Purpose beats contract. A paycheck alone doesn’t buy loyalty - trust, impact and meaningful work do.
- Dialogue is non-negotiable. Employers must move from assumptions to real conversations about fears, ambitions and expectations.
Behavioral scientist Oscar van Mourik reminded us that generational shifts have always redefined societies.
“Trust is the foundation of everything. It has to be a real dialogue, not interpretation.”
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Randstad Workmonitor 2025 - Generational insights for tomorrow’s leaders
