A majority of young professionals today are prioritizing career advancement over work-life balance, according to a new survey by CNBC.
The survey, which gathered responses from 18,000 workers aged 18 to 34, sheds light on what members of Gen Z and millennials expect from their employers and how they evaluate their workplaces.
Preference for In-Office Work and Growth Opportunities
The data shows that 86% of respondents currently go into the office three or more days a week, and 76% say this schedule is ideal. These results challenge the idea that younger workers universally prefer remote work and highlight the perceived benefits of in-person interaction and career development.
When asked about long-term commitment, only 7% said they wish to stay with one company long-term. However, 46% said they would remain at their current job if there were clear growth opportunities. This indicates that transparent career pathways may be more effective in retaining young talent than benefits alone.
Desire for Feedback and Mentorship
Feedback is another critical priority. 64% of respondents want regular feedback, and among them, 62% prefer in-person conversations. Notably, 39% said they value hearing diverse perspectives, signaling that they view managers not just as evaluators, but as mentors.
Distrust of Major Corporations
The survey also revealed skepticism toward major corporations. Companies like Tesla (68%), Meta (64%), Amazon (61%), and Boeing (61%) were labeled as unethical or negatively impactful by a significant portion of respondents. These companies received even worse scores than ExxonMobil (51%), which has long been criticized for environmental damage. In Tesla’s case, the negative perception is believed to stem not from its products but from Elon Musk’s public persona and political statements.
Complex Views on Politics and DEI
Respondents expressed mixed views on political expression in the workplace. While 67% support DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs, 58% prefer to avoid political conversations at work. This suggests that while younger workers value social justice, they may not want it to dominate their work environment.
Economic Anxiety Runs High
Economic uncertainty is also top of mind. 72% said they are “somewhat” or “very” worried about a potential recession. Many link this concern to broader changes like the rise of AI or new tariff policies, which they believe are already reducing job opportunities. For a generation shaped by both the pandemic and financial crises, economic stability is not just about employment—it’s about survival.
The findings show that today’s young professionals are not merely chasing flexibility or a better work-life balance. They are seeking trustworthy organizations, tangible career growth, and continuous feedback. For companies looking to attract and retain top young talent, a clear and credible career strategy is now essential.
BY WONHEE CHO [cho.wonhee@koreadaily.com]
