New research finds that younger professionals are “rethinking their careers” amid an evolving landscape around them.
Data from International Workplace Group shows that Gen Z in Canada are “embracing flexible, AI-enabled, and multi-income pathways to build long-term earning potential” as factors shift nationwide.
For example, one-third of Gen Z are considering a side hustle or already have one.
They’re also restless, with half of them changing roles multiple times within the past three years, typically seeking higher salary or enhanced flexibility.
And a strong majority are well aware of the elephant in the room—more than 60% of Gen Z pros in Canada expect AI to “reshape their careers.”
“Gen Z is entering the workforce in a time of pivotal change,” says Christian Schmitz, chief executive officer of IWG.
More than just another wave of innovation, AI is driving “one of the most profound shifts in how we live and work in decades,” according to IWG, with entire job functions being altered in real time and new ones emerging as quickly.
IWG suggests a new career model is emerging, where success depends not only on technical skills, but also on entrepreneurial thinking and the ability to work alongside evolving technologies.
In response, Gen Z is increasingly building “portfolio careers,” combining multiple income streams to future-proof their work in an uncertain economic and technological landscape.
“With AI rapidly reshaping industries and job roles, Gen Z is adapting by developing new skills, building multiple income streams, and creating portfolio careers that strengthen their value proposition,” stated Schmitz.
Schmitz describes Gen Z as “an ambitious and hardworking generation.”
He believes that flexible ways of working help them and Gen Alpha “unlock greater potential.”
Indeed, hybrid working models remain a fixture for the foreseeable future. Gen Alpha, for example, strongly opposes the idea of lengthy commute times, maintaining pressure on employers to offer flexibility.
“By reducing long daily commutes and allowing people to work closer to home, it gives young professionals the ability to upskill, collaborate, and unlock new opportunities,” Schmitz remarked.
