Gen Z will make up 27% of the workforce by 2025, according to the Top Employers Institute. The organization released a white paper detailing how this generation is shaping the future of work, noting what aspects of a job they value most across a broad range of topics, including leadership, culture, wellbeing, and artificial intelligence.

The white paper features insights from more than 2,300 global top employers and 1,700 people aged 18–27 across nine countries and four continents.

“The results showcase that Gen Z values work-life balance, purpose-driven employment, and opportunities for growth more than previous generations,” said Jake Canull, regional director for Top Employers Institute.

Above all else, Gen Z prioritizes stability, sustainability, and safety; they want their employers to support them in building their careers while enabling a healthy life outside of work. Of those surveyed, 82% said it was important to have flexibility in their schedule and the ability to manage their work hours. When asked if they would accept a lower salary if it meant a better work-life balance, 62% said yes.

The most common response from those surveyed said they prefer—and thrive in—a work environment that is collaborative and team-oriented. When asked what kind of leader they want to work for, they chose emotional intelligence as the most important quality. They also stated that the key part of being a leader is motivating and inspiring others, with almost half saying showing empathy and care is critical.

When it came to AI, the generation recognized that the technology is here to stay, and acknowledged it has some short-term benefits. But the white paper also showed that Gen Z has some anxiety about how the technology will impact their lives, with only 60% agreeing that AI would have a positive impact on their career.

Want to learn how to better manage and market to Gen Z? Attend the NACS Show education session “Spilling the Tea on Gen Z.”