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Work Culture in 2025 – a Gen Z perspective

  • Writer: Lavinia Vladu
    Lavinia Vladu
  • Mar 19
  • 2 min read

As Gen Z and students step into the workforce, they bring fresh expectations around flexibility, authenticity, and well-being. With hybrid and remote work as standard practices, organizations must rethink their culture to foster engagement, mentorship, and a strong sense of belonging. This edition explores Gen Z’s workplace priorities, the challenges they face in hybrid environments, and how companies can adapt to attract and retain the next generation of talent.


What Gen Z Expects from Workplace Culture 🧐


Flexibility as a Standard, Not a Perk 

Gen Z values autonomy over rigid structures. The ability to choose between WFH and in-office days is no longer just a benefit—it’s a baseline expectation. Companies that mandate full-time office work without strong justification risk alienating young professionals.


Authenticity and Transparency 

Workplace culture is no longer about flashy perks; it’s about authenticity. Gen Z seeks employers who openly communicate values, provide clarity on career paths, and showcase a culture of trust and inclusivity.


Wellbeing and Work-Life Balance 

Mental health and well-being are priorities for Gen Z. Companies that invest in mental health resources, flexible work schedules, and clear boundaries between work and personal life will stand out in the competition for young talent.


Challenges of Hybrid Work for Gen Z and Students 🤹


Lack of Connection and Belonging 

Remote work can make it difficult for early-career professionals to build relationships and feel integrated into company culture. Employers must foster virtual and in-person engagement strategies that create meaningful connections.


Access to Learning and Mentorship 

Without in-person interactions, informal learning and mentorship opportunities may be limited. Companies should implement structured mentorship programs, virtual networking sessions, and accessible learning resources to support Gen Z’s professional growth.


Blurred Boundaries Between Work and Life 

The always-on nature of remote work can lead to burnout. Organizations need to set clear expectations, encourage unplugging after hours, and ensure managers model a healthy work-life balance.


How Companies Can Adapt 🧑🏼💻


  • Hybrid-First, Not Office-First: Develop policies that prioritize employee needs rather than defaulting to pre-pandemic structures.

  • Stronger Onboarding and Community-Building: Create virtual communities, buddy systems, and in-person meetups to strengthen engagement.

  • Investment in Digital Culture: Use collaborative tech tools and virtual spaces that enhance connection and teamwork.

  • Personalized Career Growth: Offer flexible career pathways, continuous learning opportunities, and mentorship programs tailored to remote and hybrid workers.



Workplace culture in 2025 isn’t just about where work happens—it’s about how it feels to be part of a company. Organizations that embrace flexibility, foster inclusivity and proactively support their youngest employees will position themselves as top choices for Gen Z talent.

How is your company evolving its workplace culture to meet these expectations? 💡


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