Is Generation Z Really Lazy and Too Demanding Toward Employers?

10.02.2026

Olga Dzene, Leadership Development Expert, Figure Baltic Advisory

Generation Z - often referred to as Gen Z or “zoomers” - is surrounded by a wide range of stereotypes, particularly when it comes to their attitude toward work. They are frequently described as lazy, unwilling to work overtime, overly demanding toward employers, and ready to quit their jobs at the first sign of dissatisfaction. In reality, Generation Z is simply better at setting healthy boundaries and prioritising work-life balance. There is a lot that other generations can learn from them.

Open to the World, Yet Feeling Insecure

Members of Generation Z were born between 1997 and around 2012. The oldest among them have already entered the labour market, and countless assumptions have been made about their work ethic and values. According to Latvia’s Central Statistical Bureau, this generation makes up approximately 14% of the employed population, around 122,000 people aged 15 to 29.

Before accepting common stereotypes about Gen Z, it is important to understand the context in which this generation grew up. They are often described as having been raised in comfortable material conditions, surrounded by technology and smartphones from an early age. What is frequently overlooked, however, is that their childhood and adolescence were shaped by the 2008 economic crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the war in Ukraine. While Gen Z is globally minded and open to the world, this very openness also contributes to a sense of insecurity.

Not Afraid to Set Healthy Boundaries

Compared to previous generations, Gen Z does place different expectations on employers. They want a well-organised work environment, clear goals and responsibilities, meaningful work, friendly colleagues, and respect for their free time and personal lives. Is that really too much to ask? This generation is not afraid to define and defend healthy boundaries - something that is often misunderstood, but in fact represents a valuable lesson for other generations.

Expect Employers to Care About Mental Health

It is true that many Gen Z employees struggle with fragile mental health. This is not a whim or a trend, but a consequence of the global events they have experienced while growing up. As a result, this generation faces a higher risk of burnout. Gen Z expects employers to take mental health seriously - for example, by offering access to psychological support as part of employee benefits. Free coffee or fruit at the office is certainly not something this generation considers a meaningful perk.

Do Not Try to “Re-engineer” Zoomers

When discussing the entry of Gen Z into the workforce, the question often arises: who will adapt to whom? It is worth remembering that Gen Z members are young people. Most of us, in our youth, were idealists to some degree, and personal values tend to evolve over time. That said, employers should not assume they can quickly “reshape” Gen Z employees. Zoomers do not view work as something that must be preserved at all costs. They are well aware that the world is open and that technology provides countless opportunities. This is why they find it easier to leave a job if it does not meet their expectations. This is neither good nor bad - it simply reflects a different set of values and interpretations.

They Expect Respect and Work-Life Balance

It is natural for employers to wonder what kind of work Gen Z prefers. Trends suggest that zoomers are more attracted to international companies and roles with a broader impact. Meaning matters to them - they want their work to contribute to making the world a better place. As a result, many are involved in NGOs, volunteering, and charitable initiatives. From employers, they expect respectful treatment and a healthy balance between work and private life. Gen Z also tends to gravitate toward professions that are more visible in both traditional and social media, such as IT and the creative industries.

Finally, it is important to note that zoomers are largely indifferent to hierarchy. Whether we like it or not, they value competence and results far more than titles or status. Other generations may interpret this as a lack of respect, but Gen Z does respect others - they simply believe respect should be earned through actions, not positions.

A Reflection of the Time We Live In

Generation Z is neither lazy nor excessively demanding. It simply reflects the realities of the era we live in. Their attitude toward work highlights what previous generations often accepted as normal: unclear rules, chronic overwork, and hierarchy without substance. The task for employers is not to “re-educate” zoomers, but to understand how the values of this generation can become a strength for the organisation. Those who succeed in doing so will gain not only loyal employees, but also a more sustainable, humane, and future-ready workplace.