It’s not beanbags or ping pong tables — it’s clarity, connection, and culture
When people talk about Gen Z at work, the conversation often drifts toward surface-level perks — unlimited vacation, yoga on Wednesdays, or having the latest coffee machine.
But if you actually listen to what Gen Z is saying, the reality is both simpler and more meaningful.
“The biggest misconception is that they all want to work from home and be left alone,” said Gen Z expert Laura Bas in our recent Gen Z 101 webinar. “What I heard again and again in my research was: I want fun colleagues. I want a culture I enjoy being part of.”
So, what does Gen Z really want in the workplace? Here’s what we uncovered — and how your company can deliver.
A workplace that feels social, not sterile
Yes, flexibility matters. But don’t assume Gen Z is desperate to avoid the office. The truth is more nuanced.
“I rarely meet young professionals who say they want to be fully remote,” said Laura. “They want hybrid — a few days at home, but also time in the office to connect with others.”
Connection with colleagues ranked as the #1 workplace motivator in Laura’s interviews. Many said they craved community, not just Slack threads, but real-life interactions. And they’re more likely to show up for a workplace that feels worth showing up for.
If your current office setup feels more like a grey waiting room than a place to thrive, it might be time to rethink the experience. One way? Offer the kind of perks that make being there feel good — and purposeful.
Recognition is essential for Gen Z
This is a generation raised in a feedback loop — from likes on posts to in-app notifications. That doesn’t make them needy. It just means feedback is part of their rhythm.
“They’ve grown up in a world where there’s constant feedback. So when they don’t get any at work, they wonder what’s going on,” Laura noted.
But this isn’t about endless praise. Gen Z values authentic, timely recognition — even if it’s just a simple, “You did great on that presentation.” And they’re just as open to constructive feedback, as long as it’s delivered with context and care.
Health is part of the job description
Here’s where the clichés about “young people wanting free stuff” miss the mark. Gen Z isn’t asking for handouts — they’re asking for support that helps them perform better.
“Health came up all the time,” Laura said. “Not just the option to work out, but things like a healthy, paid lunch or having water available all day — little things that make you feel good.”
They’re not looking for kombucha on tap (okay, maybe some are). But they do care about hydration, food that fuels them, and workdays that allow time for movement and mental breaks. These aren’t luxuries — they’re part of a high-functioning, human workplace.
This is where small gestures make a big difference. Something like a flavored water tap in the office can be a simple, healthy nudge that shows employees, especially Gen Z, that their well-being matters.
Flexibility with a side of structure
Yes, Gen Z wants flexibility. But that doesn’t mean chaos.
They’re not against structure — in fact, they often crave clarity, especially when it comes to what’s expected of them.
“They want to know: what are the steps? What do I need to do to grow? What’s the next level?” Laura shared. “Telling them ‘you’re doing great, just keep going’ isn’t enough. They want clear career paths.”
What role can hydration play in retaining Gen Z talent?
Creating a Gen Z-friendly workplace isn’t about offering more — it’s about offering meaningfully. An office that feels welcoming, perks that support real needs, and leaders who listen — those are the things that land.
Hydration is a great example. You don’t need a wellness budget the size of Google’s. But offering a solution like Aquablu REFILL+, which provides filtered, flavored, and sparkling water without plastic waste? That’s a simple upgrade with a big impact. It’s healthy. It’s sustainable. And it says: we’re paying attention.
See how Aquablu fits into a future-friendly office
Final thought
At the core, Gen Z wants what most employees want: to be seen, supported, and set up to succeed. The difference is they’re willing to ask for it. Companies that respond won’t just attract this generation — they’ll keep them energized, engaged, and growing.
Want more Gen Z insights?
We’ve captured the best tips from our Gen Z 101 webinar, plus some additional ones, in an ebook written by Laura Bas.
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Joshua
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