Understanding the work values of Gen Z business students

Abstract

The next generation (i.e., post-Millennials/Gen Z) now represents a majority of our business students. Yet, there is limited empirical evidence of the career expectations of this emerging generation, thereby impeding our ability to effectively engage students both in the classroom and in the career development process. To overcome this gap, we surveyed business students at seven different U.S. universities to assess their career work expectations. The results show broad similarities between Gen Z and the prior Gen Y generation yet also highlight some meaningful, significant variations. Supporting and extending existing literature, the results depict a typical business student who focuses on a stable career by developing strong skillsets that allow them to advance quickly in the workplace. A follow up survey of business faculty and career service personnel reveals that both groups are relatively out of touch with such student expectations. Specific recommendations are subsequently provided to enable business faculty to enrich student interest in their courses as well as help academic programs and career services enhance the fit of these students with majors and careers.