Part-time trap or work-life balance? This is how Generation Z ticks!

Part-time trap or work-life balance? This is how Generation Z ticks!

Working hours in Germany are subject to change, especially when comparing men and women and between different generations. Current data from WDR show that more women than men work part-time, often due to childcare. While women work significantly fewer hours in part-time jobs, there is hardly any difference in working hours between the genders in full-time jobs. Another notable trend is the behavior of Generation Z, who on average work less than older generations between the ages of 15 and 34.

This development is supported by the younger generation's search for a better balance between work and private life. According to a 2022 study by Mainz University of Applied Sciences, 77 percent of the Bachelor students surveyed value a good work-life balance. daily news reports that young professionals like Lea Poos, a 23-year-old working student, value flexibility and a balanced relationship between job and private life. She doesn't want to work more than 35 hours a week, which reflects the needs of her generation.

The changing world of work

Employers are responding to the wishes of Generation Z by offering flexible working time models. Tidi von Tiedemann, managing director of Gegenfilm, emphasizes that these concessions can increase the motivation of young employees. In contrast to this is the perspective of Frank Darstein, a 65-year-old hotelier, who sees the demands for more free time as selfishness that could endanger prosperity. He calls on the younger generation to try as hard as previous generations and criticizes the changing work ethic.

The gap between generations is clear. While Julian Daske, a 26-year-old representative of Generation Z, is satisfied with a 40-hour week, he is critical of the four-day week. Poos, on the other hand, contradicts the prejudices about her generation and calls for improvements in working conditions. This highlights the different views within generations regarding work and lifestyle.

Skilled labor shortage and labor market

Another aspect that influences the change in the world of work is the shortage of skilled workers in Germany. In 2022, 40 percent of companies were unable to meet their need for skilled workers. This has led to employers like von Tiedemann specifically addressing the needs of young talent in order to receive enough applications. He reports that he receives more applications than there are positions available, and he is convinced that Generation Z does not endanger prosperity, but rather creates new opportunities.

Overall, it is clear that the labor market landscape in Germany is in a state of upheaval, shaped by the ideas and needs of the younger generation. Adapting to the new working style could have long-term positive effects for both employees and employers.