Standard benefits packages won’t cut it for Gen Z. Here’s how they’re raising the bar and what you can do to meet it in 3 easy ways.

The generation that won’t settle for more of the same. Gen Z is here and they’re changing the game.

Born between 1997 and 2012, they’ve grown up digital, purpose-driven, and ready to challenge how work works. By the end of 2025, they’ll make up a quarter of the global workforce

And here’s the thing: standard benefits packages aren’t cutting it anymore.

If you want to attract, engage, and retain Gen Z talent, you’ll need a benefits experience that feels as personal, digital, and values led as they are.  So being part of the Bristol Creative’s network let’s explore how this generation is raising the bar for benefits and what you can do to meet it.

Firstly, digital Natives Expect Digital-First Benefits!  Gen Z grew up with smartphones, social feeds, and instant everything. So, when they join your workforce, they expect the same seamless experience from your benefits. A company’s tech influences whether they want to work there. They expect business tools to be as intuitive as TikTok and as mobile-friendly as their banking apps. If your benefits platform feels clunky or old-school? You’ll lose them before they’ve even logged in.

Secondly, they care deeply about purpose. For Gen Z, work isn’t just a job. It’s a platform for impact. Often, purpose at work matters more than a pay cheque. If your benefits don’t reflect your social and environmental commitments, you’re missing a massive engagement driver.

Then there’s the whole avenue called “flexibility”. Gen Z doesn’t measure success by hours logged. They care about outcomes and flexibility of schedules. In addition, there’s flexibility with regards to personalised benefits which I have mentioned numerous times. Forget biscuit-cutter packages. Gen Z expects choice: mental health support (which is non-negotiable being essential not optional), help their sustainability goals/carbon footprint, help with student loan repayments, help with community impact…all good examples.

Why? Well, it’s not rocket science – lower turnover, higher engagement and it makes you stand out in the crowd as an employer.

Gen Z is raising the bar for what great benefits look like. If you’re still offering one-size-fits-all packages, you’re missing a huge opportunity to engage the workforce of tomorrow.

If nothing else just look at

• Personalising your benefits.
• Prioritise mental health.
• Communicate clearly, year-round.
• Make it digital-first.
• Ensure it works for every generation.

Because if your benefits aren’t easy to access, easy to understand, and easy to love, they aren’t working hard enough.

About Un:Fade Employee Benefits Consulting

Specialists in seamless employee benefits, payroll and fintech solutions consulting. Helping you stand out as an EMPLOYER OF CHOICE by examining your benefits program to ensure cost-effectiveness, and alignment with employee and business goals