By Charlotte Minett
The study, which polled 500 youngsters aged 13 to 18, found that 46% already have their hearts set on a career that aligns with their personal values. A whopping 77% are already weighing up the importance of mental health support at work, as 74% believe it will boost employee happiness and retention, while 36% reckon it will ensure no staff member feels ‘left out’. However, only a mere 8% are interested in company-wide events. Interestingly, they’re more likely to be swayed by a job offering free private healthcare (17%) over a company car scheme (7%). Dr. Amy Pressland, a spokesperson from Benenden Health, which commissioned the research for its ‘Future of Work’ report , commented: “This research demonstrates a distinct step-change for the next generation of workers and what’s important to them. “Employers need to urgently consider what this means for how they design workplaces, roles and employee benefits. The company car and the Christmas party may become de-prioritised as Generation Alpha (born between 2010 and 2024) join the workforce. “Front and centre for Gen Alpha is health – they are the generation most concerned with mental health, supporting neurodiversity, and will prioritise employers who align with their concerns and values.” The study also quizzed the teenagers’ parents, revealing that 54% are anxious about their kids entering the workforce. Their main concerns include the disparity between the skills taught in school and those required in a professional setting (41%). Fears about toxic work environments (39%) are also listed by parents as main concerns. Additionally, 27% worry that their young adults won’t fit in with the company culture. However, a reassuring 85% of parents believe that attitudes towards work have shifted since they started their first job. Specifically, 39% have noticed an increase in mental health support. Additionally, 53% have seen more flexible working arrangements, and 35% think the workplace has become more supportive in recent years. In a separate survey of 500 HR professionals, also conducted by OnePoll for the healthcare provider, 59% reported that younger generations are seeking different benefits than their predecessors. These perks include flexible hours, remote work options, and enhanced mental health support, as well as gym memberships, private healthcare, and pet-friendly offices. Dr. Amy Pressland from Benenden Health commented: “With Generation Alpha mere years away from entering the workforce en masse, now is the time for employers, CEOs, IT and HR directors to consider how they must adapt their workplaces to attract the most diverse and digitally-savvy generation to date.”