New Delhi, July 15 -- India's Gen Z is entering the workforce at a time when AI adoption, rising costs of living, gig work, flexible workspaces and urban commute stress are converging. As a result, Gen Z professionals are rethinking their careers, driven by flexibility, AI fluency and multiple income pathways, rather than a single linear job, said the new research from International Workplace Group (IWG).
Rather than relying on a single employer or role, Gen Z is increasingly building "portfolio careers," combining multiple income streams to future-proof their work in an uncertain economic and technological landscape. This shift is closely tied to the growing influence of AI, with 55% believing it will reshape their careers.
Earning potential remains a key driver. Among those who have changed roles in the past three years, 30% say their main motivation was securing a higher salary and 43% changed roles two to three times during this period. However, Gen Z is not simply climbing traditional career ladders. Instead, many are adopting "career lily pads," which involves strategically moving between roles, industries and projects to increase earning potential and stay ahead of financial commitments such as rent, bills and student loan repayments.
For younger workers, the traditional long commute is increasingly seen as outdated. Many want to work closer to home from professional workspaces using technology that allows them to collaborate, network and build their careers without spending hours travelling each day. 65% of Gen Z say they would be less likely to pursue entrepreneurship or multiple careers if required to commute long distances daily. Hybrid and flexible working are enabling this shift by giving young professionals greater control over their time. 24% say hybrid work reduces commuting time, freeing up hours they can reinvest in personal projects or additional income streams.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.