In today's age of AI, it is not a surprise when we see many Gen-Zs who prefer to freelance, as compared to having a full time 9-5 job.
To older generations, this could be viewed as something foreign, scary and incomprehensible. However, there are legitimate reasons as to why many Gen-Zs prefer to freelance.
Here are a few.
1. Fear of becoming obsolete in the era of AI
In an era where AI runs rampant, Gen-Zs are afraid that their roles may become obsolete. For one, if they train for a job, will that role even exist, or be relevant in a few years?
AI can write, design, and strategize at scale, leading to existential questions about where human skills fit in. Many feel that feel current training programs can't keep up with the pace of technological change.
2. Preference of agility over stability
Then, there is the discussion for being a jack of all trades, instead of a master to one. Many are choosing portfolio careers, freelancing, and short-term gigs to stay adaptable.
This allows their generation to pivot quickly as industries evolve. It is a safeguarding their future practice, one that will help make sure they're not left high and dry in the next decade or so.
3. Skepticism toward traditional career paths
Finally, it is a different worldview than the norm. Gen-Zs prefer career paths that do not look the same as those who came before them.
Concepts like job security, retirement savings, and climbing the corporate ladder feel outdated or unattainable. Gen Z is more focused on flexibility and relevance than long-term tenure.
And those are the reasons why a huge majority of Gen-Zs would prefer many temporary things for a long time, as compared to one permanent thing for maybe a long time.
So, next time you wonder why Gen-Zs move different, you'll know!