A major new survey has uncovered a profound shift in workplace attitudes among Generation Z, with a majority viewing their employment as transient, low-commitment arrangements akin to modern 'situationships'.
The 'Situationship' Workforce
Research conducted by Gateway Commercial Finance, which polled more than 1,000 Gen Z employees, found that 58 percent characterise their current job as a 'situationship'. This term, borrowed from modern dating lexicon, describes a connection that is intentionally short-term and involves minimal commitment from either party.
The data indicates this mindset directly translates into career mobility. A striking 47 percent of respondents stated they plan to leave their job within just one year of starting it. Furthermore, the survey revealed that nearly half of those questioned feel ready to resign at any given moment.
Drivers of Discontent and Managerial Pushback
When exploring the reasons behind this readiness to move on, the pursuit of better pay emerged as the primary motivator. 55 percent cited the potential for higher salaries elsewhere as a key reason for leaving.
Dissatisfaction with current roles is also widespread. Over a third (34 percent) report suffering from poor mental health and burnout in their present positions, while 22 percent feel undervalued or unrecognised by their employer.
However, this trend is creating friction with hiring managers. One in four sees a role lasting less than a year on a Gen Z candidate's CV as a significant red flag. More damningly, over one in three hiring managers admit they have decided against hiring a Gen Z applicant specifically because of a history of job-hopping.
A Focus on Financial Independence
This transient approach to careers coincides with Gen Z's pronounced focus on achieving financial stability. A separate study by Bank of America's 2025 Better Money Habits report found that 72 percent of Gen Z took active steps to improve their financial health over the past year.
Interestingly, the data shows a move towards self-reliance. Only 39 percent reported receiving financial support from their families in 2025, a notable drop from 46 percent in 2024.
Holly O'Neill, President of Consumer, Retail, and Preferred Banking at Bank of America, commented on this drive. "Gen Z is challenging the stereotype when it comes to young people and their finances," she said. "Even though they’re facing economic barriers and high everyday costs, they are working hard to become financially independent and take control of their money."
The overarching picture from the Gateway survey is one of pragmatic detachment. Only 46 percent believe there are tangible benefits to staying with a single employer in today's market. Just 37 percent see their job as merely a source of income, and a mere 25 percent consider their current role a long-term opportunity they are truly invested in.
This generational shift presents a clear challenge for UK employers, who must now adapt retention strategies for a cohort that prioritises flexibility, mental wellbeing, and financial progression over traditional notions of corporate loyalty.
