A recent survey by recruitment firm Robert Walters has revealed that 52% of Gen Z professionals in the UK are not keen on pursuing middle management roles, citing high stress and low rewards as key deterrents. The trend, known as 'conscious unbossing,' reflects a shift in career aspirations for this generation, born in the late 1990s.
Unlike previous generations, many Gen Z professionals are opting for career paths focused on individual development and skills acquisition, rather than overseeing teams. The survey shows that 72% of respondents prefer to advance their careers through personal growth, rather than taking on management responsibilities.
"Gen Z professionals tend to focus on cultivating their personal brand and approach, rather than spending time managing others," said Lucy Bisset, Director at Robert Walters.
Stress and Lower Rewards Drive Reluctance
The study also found that 69% of Gen Z workers see middle management as too stressful and low in reward. This attitude represents a significant departure from traditional career trajectories, where employees often aimed for management positions as a natural step forward.
Challenges for Employers
Despite these shifting attitudes, employers continue to view middle management as an essential part of organisational structures. The reluctance of younger workers to take on these roles could pose challenges for businesses in the future. Bisset added, "This reluctance to take on middle management roles could spell trouble for employers later down the line."
With many Gen Z professionals having started their careers in remote or hybrid environments, the traditional office-based career progression may no longer hold the same appeal.
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