What does Gen Z really want from the workplace? If you assume the answer is “remote everything,” think again.
In our latest survey to more than 2,000 graduating college seniors from the Class of 2025, LaSalle Network found that nearly half (47%) of those who had already accepted a full-time offer reported their new role is fully in-office. This data challenges the common narrative that younger workers overwhelmingly prefer remote work and highlights a generational shift toward the desire for in-person connection.
Even more revealing: among unemployed respondents, 31% say they prefer fully in-office work. In an era defined by flexible models and hybrid perks, these grads are choosing structure, access and learning over location.
So, why the shift?
For early-career talent, in-person work offers tangible benefits that are difficult to replicate remotely, like real-time feedback that accelerates growth, and mentorship and visibility in day-to-day collaboration.
Grads understand that showing up (literally) can help them ramp up faster and advance quicker. In fact, opportunity for growth ranked as the top factor when evaluating employers, even outranking compensation and culture.
HYBRID ISN’T GONE, IT JUST NEEDS STRUCTURE
While 47% of employed grads accepted in-office roles, 25% accepted hybrid positions, with the majority (83%) of those hybrid workers working remotely 2–3 days per week. The desire for flexibility is still strong, but only if it comes with clarity.
What works in hybrid models, according to both data and experience at LaSalle, includes:
- Scheduled in-office collaboration days
- Formal mentorship and training programs
- Clear performance expectations
IMPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYERS
Rather than guessing what Gen Z wants, employers should listen and build with intention. The message from this generation is clear: it’s not about where they work, it’s about how they grow.
Organizations that provide community, structure, and mentorship, whether remote, hybrid, or in-office, will gain a serious edge in attracting early-career talent.
Want to see the full breakdown of 2025 graduate preferences? Download LaSalle Network’s full “Evolving Expectations in Entry Level Hiring” report today.
