Gen Z more likely to feel disconnected from peers working from home

A new survey has revealed that Generation Z is happier working in a traditional office environment than in their own home.

The Unispace research shows that of the 3,000 office workers questioned, 78% of Gen Z find it easier to bond with colleagues in the workplace and 81% say that working from home makes them feel disconnected from their peers.

According to the findings, 79% of Gen Z respondents said they felt more active when working in the office, while for older workers this figure sits at 66%.

Sixty per cent of Gen Z workers said that work-from-home restrictions made them value the office more, whereas this figure stood at just 43% for older workers.

Stuart Finnie, Head of Design at Unispace, commented on the findings, “While younger generations may face the stereotype of being a ‘digital-only’ group of workers, our research clearly shows that they prioritise the ability to learn from others face to face. And despite prevailing technology, nothing can replace the sense of belonging that in-person socialisation can bring.”

“While younger workers generally have access to technology and the digital skills to work remotely long-term, our research suggests that this group values the opportunity, collaboration, and support that a physical office provides more than any other age group. But employers are seemingly failing to utilise the power of the office to attract these individuals.

“With Gen Zers now accounting for around a third of the global population, for employers looking to beat the competition, considerations must be made to improve the quality of the environments they provide. Those employers who consider their workplace and generational needs, will be able to not only engage and retain their best talent, but also attract new staff in our current candidate-led jobs market.”

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