Workplace conflicts intensified among different generations, with Generation Z reportedly bearing the brunt in a recent study by DAK.
The recently published DAK Health Report titled **"Gen Z in the Workplace"** sheds light on the unique experiences and expectations of young employees in Germany, particularly focusing on generational conflicts, job satisfaction, health situation, and sick leave.
The report reveals that around one-quarter (28%) of Germany's workforce, with young employees slightly more affected, experiences generational conflicts. These conflicts often stem from differences in expectations and work attitudes between Generation Z and their older colleagues, leading to misunderstandings and tension. Gen Z values meaningful work, flexibility, and a positive work environment more than previous generations, which can sometimes result in friction when these desires are not met.
Job satisfaction among young employees is another area of concern. Many Gen Z workers report lower satisfaction levels than their older counterparts. They seek more autonomy, better communication, and work-life balance, which are seen as lacking in some workplaces. The report suggests that improving these aspects could enhance satisfaction and commitment.
The health of young employees is also a significant concern, with the report showing that Gen Z workers face mental health challenges, including stress and burnout, which have grown in recent years. Mental well-being is lower among younger workers, underscoring the importance of targeted health promotion.
Sick leave is another focus of the report. Gen Z has a higher rate of sick days compared to other age groups, often due to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, as well as physical ailments related to stress. This trend underscores the need for workplace interventions to support health and reduce absenteeism.
Interestingly, the report also finds that Gen Z is more likely to proactively take sick leave to prevent an illness from worsening. More than 83% of those under 30 agree with this sentiment.
The health and education sectors have the highest proportion of employees experiencing generational conflicts, at 30% each. On the contrary, the data processing industry has the lowest proportion, at 12%.
The report further examines psychologically-induced absences among Gen Z, revealing that 26% report depressive symptoms in the past 14 days. Young employees have more sick days due to respiratory issues (95 more days per 100 employees) and fewer due to musculoskeletal problems (166 fewer days per 100 employees).
DAK Health CEO Andreas Storm emphasizes the need for a generational bridge to keep young employees healthy and satisfied at work. He suggests that employers in Germany need to address the unique needs of Gen Z to foster a healthier, more satisfying work environment and to mitigate generational conflicts and associated health-related absences.
In conclusion, the DAK Health Report provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by Gen Z in the workplace. Employers in Germany are encouraged to take these findings into account to create a more productive, healthy, and satisfying work environment for all employees.
The report suggests that addressing the unique needs of Generation Z, such as their emphasis on mental health and well-being, could potentially enhance their job satisfaction and commitment. Moreover, due to Gen Z's higher rate of sick days, particularly those related to mental health issues, workplace interventions aimed at supporting health and reducing absenteeism might be necessary.
