This marks a shift away from the remote working trend that gained momentum during the Great Resignation.

While many companies have maintained remote working policies introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic to promote flexibility and improve employee retention, a significant portion of Gen Z is pushing for more face-to-face interaction.

According to FDM Group's whitepaper, Gen Z: Breaking Generational Stereotypes, three-quarters of this generation still favour hybrid working due to the balance it offers between professional and personal life. However, 80% believe that spending more time in the office would accelerate their career development by giving them better access to skills and insights from more experienced colleagues.

Sheila Flavell CBE, COO of FDM Group, commented: “The pandemic forced a significant change in working models for every organisation, but several years on people are increasingly wanting more face-to-face time in the office again. For Gen Z especially, the learning opportunities and social aspect of the office are impossible to replicate remotely so it’s no wonder they are pushing for hybrid working to get the best of both worlds.”

Two-thirds of Gen Z respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the available learning resources offered by their company, driving a desire to learn more from colleagues.

“Organisations should be using office time to provide hands-on training for Gen Z. At our FDM Skills Labs, our consultants are placed in dynamic learning environments that simulate real-world scenarios. Through experiential learning they develop industry-standard skills and knowledge and can start adding value to a business as soon as they’re deployed.” Flavell added.

Skills development and new experiences are among Gen Z’s top priorities, with 66% prioritising them over job loyalty and believing that changing companies is the key to their career progression.