U.S. — A January 2026 MetLife survey found that 30% of Generation Z employees reported feeling isolated, compared to 22% of other generations who reported similar feelings during the same period. Additionally, 82% of Gen Z employees indicated a desire for greater flexibility from their employers, according to a September 2024 study.

A July 2024 report by BSG found that 79% of white-collar employees had experienced loneliness as a result of their jobs. Author Lia Garvin said, "There is a backlash on the feeling of isolation and disconnection." She added, "Data continues to show a decline in employee engagement across all industries, and people are seeking out the human connection we lost when we moved primarily to remote work."

A Gallup generational study revealed that 71% of Gen Z employees favor a hybrid work model, the highest preference among all generations for this environment. Gen Z is also the least likely generation to desire an entirely remote work setup, with 23% of remote-capable Gen Z workers preferring full-time remote work. In contrast, 35% of older generations expressed a preference for fully remote work.

A survey by Harris Poll and Freeman, which included 1,824 U.S. adults in white-collar positions, found that 91% of respondents want a balance between remote and in-person work. The results indicated that Gen Z believes attending live events and engaging in in-person work can benefit their careers, business relationships, and personal growth. The survey noted: "Gen Z was born into a digital world that connected their lives from the start, so it's easy to assume they prefer online worlds to the real one."

Andrew Boccio, cofounder and CEO of executive placement and recruiting firm Landing Point, commented on Gen Z's work preferences. Boccio said, "They are okay with as much as four days in the office, but place real value on the flexibility to have at least one remote day." Garvin also stated, "Hungry to move quickly in their careers and prove themselves, they recognize the need for face time with leaders and decision makers in their companies."