The gig economy may be gaining traction but the majority of jobseekers are still seeking permanent roles
Generation Z jobseekers are more likely to seek temporary employment over permanent full-time positions, according to an APAC Workforce Insights survey.
Commissioned by recruiting firm PERSOLKELLY, the study found that almost two-thirds of Gen Z respondents agreed that more jobseekers are pursuing contract-based roles, 20 percentage points higher than other age groups. Those labelled as Gen Z are born between 1995 and 2009.
Flexibility was the most compelling reason for workers to join the gig economy, with flexible working hours a key reason for 60% of respondents.
“The gig economy is becoming increasingly appealing to Gen Z workers because it affords them an increased sense of control over their careers, access to stimulating work, and the ability to grow their networks,” said Jessica Ang, regional head of corporate brands management, APAC at PERSOLKELLY.
However, Asia Pacific’s diverse workforce might not be fully inclined towards a gig economy yet. Only 43% of respondents agreed that jobseekers are more likely to be seeking flexible contract-based roles over traditional full-time roles, suggesting that the shift away from permanent full-time roles is not yet prevalent.
“Employers can take some comfort that jobseekers still value permanent, full-time roles,” Ang said. “However, with the work ideals of each generation changing, adjustments will need to be made in the future to accommodate employees’ desire for flexibility and ensure high levels of attraction and retention.”
While the move toward a gig economy workforce style is not yet entrenched, it is gaining traction in certain parts of the region. Hong Kong has most embraced the free agent trend, with 55% of its workers agreeing that there is a preference for more flexible employment. Vietnam (50%), Thailand (48%) and Singapore (47%) are close behind.
The APAC Workforce Insights surveyed 9,295 hiring managers and candidates across a wide range of industries and nine countries in Asia Pacific.
