Fast Company Daily Forget job hunting. Gen Z is ‘growth hunting’
Dec 24, 2025
Gen Z is redefining their career approach, prioritizing growth over traditional job titles. Almost half plan to switch jobs seeking better opportunities for development rather than just higher pay. However, barriers like debt and burnout hinder their pursuit of skills. The host critiques corporate practices that promote learning but expect employees to self-fund their growth. He suggests actionable steps employers can take to support their workforce, arguing that investing in employee development will foster loyalty among Gen Z.
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Leaving For Growth, Not Impulse
- Gen Z leaving jobs is driven by pursuit of growth, not impulsiveness or disloyalty.
- Nearly half of Gen Z workers plan to leave and prioritize better growth opportunities.
Cost And Burnout Block Upskilling
- Financial barriers block upskilling for many Gen Z workers despite strong interest.
- Majorities cite cost and burnout as the primary obstacles to career development.
Momentum Trumps Titles
- Careers no longer follow predictable ladders, so Gen Z chases momentum and skill growth.
- They prioritize places that accelerate learning rather than titles or tenure.