Generation Z is significantly changing the work culture or Equity, meaningfulness and flexibility first
Tell me where these people are...
In the Czech Republic today, Generation Z makes up about 20% of the population, which is about half the number of members of the older generation of baby boomers. As a result, young people can choose from a wider range of jobs, while companies have to fight for their favour. According to ManpowerGroup's Talent Shortage 2025 survey, 66% of Czech employers are facing a talent shortage in filling positions for the third year in a row.
"Generation Z, which is entering the labour market, represents a very important source of labour for which employers will be competing in the future. Companies will have to learn how to work with Generation Z and understand what motivates them at work, what kind of environment they want to work in and what they expect from an employer," says Jaroslava Rezlerová, CEO of ManpowerGroup Czech Republic.
Generation Z brings new values and demands influenced by events such as the recent pandemic. "This generation is independent, fast learners and prefers a flexible working environment. They bring fresh perspectives and innovation to the work environment. They are great team players if they see meaning in their work. Real-world examples show that companies that have adapted to the needs of Generation Z have seen increased productivity and new approaches," Rezler said.
According to the ManpowerGroup Labour Market Index Q2 2025, 28% of global employers said that recruiting and upskilling and reskilling Generation Z workers is their top priority. "Generation Z is key for us. They bring new ideas and energy that are invaluable to our business. To attract them, we rely on honesty, innovation and stories that have meaning. We want to create an environment where young people feel valued and have the opportunity to develop their talents," says Michaela Roško, Group HR Director at Wikov Industry a.s.
One of the main trends of Generation Z is the so-called conscious unbossing, i.e. the rejection of traditional hierarchical structures. Young employees want to perceive their managers as mentors rather than as "perfect" authorities. "They want to see and treat their boss more as a mentor who will give them advice when they need it, but will not order them around or over-control them. It is becoming increasingly important for young people to be seen as equal partners rather than just doing what they are told," explains Jaroslava Rezlerová.
More than 75% of respondents put emphasis on company values and culture when choosing an employer. "During interviews, we perceive that Generation Z places great emphasis on career growth opportunities and ESG activities. Transparency, social responsibility and sustainability are key for them," confirms Gabriela Kahounová, Group People & Culture Director at HOPI HOLDING a.s. In addition, a Deloitte survey shows that 69% of young Czechs expect more sustainability activities from companies.
Alarmingly, almost half (47%) of Generation Z employees plan to leave their current job within six months, mainly due to dissatisfaction and stress. Furthermore, 76% of employers are improving technology tools, 73% are offering flexible working hours, 73% are increasing rewards and 73% are offering career development. "It is important for employers to understand young people and find the key to their needs in terms of working conditions or company culture. Some companies have already understood that without intervening in the company culture, offering benefits such as working from home or investing in better technological tools, this will not work," says Rezler.
"At HOPI HOLDING, we also perceive the needs of the young generation who prefer to work remotely, want to grow professionally and feel good at work. That is why we are trying to develop our e-learning platform where employees can find interesting training courses, this year we are launching a Talent Programme and the annual employee evaluation is also important to us. Regular feedback helps not only employees but also the whole company to continuously improve," Gabriela Kahounová explains the strategy.
