Gen Z—Disruptive–Or toeing the line? Adecco’s surprising survey findings
The survey also revealed telling findings regarding Gen Zers’ attitudes towards education. 81% of Taiwanese youth intend to seek higher education, although most doubt that the education system would effectively prepare them for the job market (57%). They might be right, as employers in Taiwan’s industrial sectors lament the lack of qualified personnel, despite the fact that a high majority of young people will ultimately obtain college degrees. Only 16% of Gen Zers say they would seek a career in manufacturing, despite the overwhelming influence of the industrial sector on Taiwan’s economy. In fact, the most attractive sectors for youth include hospitality (59%), arts/entertainment/sports (49%) and, reassuringly for the Old Guard, business services (65%)—all service-oriented trades that are stymied by Taiwan’s lack of development in these areas. The mismatch between education and needed skills is one of Taiwan’s most pressing issues as it struggles with a disaffected college-age population frustrated by the perceived lack of economic opportunities.
The frustrations of the college-kids are perhaps also trickling down to their younger Gen Z peers, with only 31% of Taiwanese youth expecting to be better off financially than their parents.
But the survey reveals that Taiwanese youth also have a streak of independence. While most prioritize job security, few want to actually work 9-5 to get it, with 53% saying they would prefer some alternative to going into the office on a regular basis. Job flexibility is a priority, with 31% saying they are open to the idea of working as a contractor or freelancer, the highest among nations surveyed. Entrepreneurism is also highly valued by Taiwanese teens, with 64% saying that running their own business definitely or possibly appeals to them.
“Are they (organizations) operating ethically, honestly, decently? Are they giving back to society through a corporate social responsibility program? That’s not something we saw 10 or 20 years ago.”