This Is Why Filipino Gen Zs Prefer Working Alone

Is social media making people, especially the younger population, anti-social?

The Generation Z has been exposed to social media and technology almost their whole lives. While older generations grew up spending most of their time outside to socialize with people, Gen Zs could last hours just glued to their smartphones or computers. 

ALSO READ

Gen Zs Heavily Consider Company Values and Political Stances When Looking for Jobs

Gen Z and Young Millennials Are Helping Drive Economic Growth by Shopping

So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that this habit could impact their health, well-being, and social skills. Studies by the United States-based Child Mind Institute have found that younger individuals who spend the most time on social media tend to exhibit significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, and loneliness—ranging from approximately 13 to 66 percent.

It seems that the digital age has even changed how the younger generation works. Filipino Gen Zs are now leaning more toward working independently rather than with a team. This was revealed in a study by healthcare provider PhilCare, which found that 55 percent of this age group expressed a preference for working alone—higher than the 50 percent of Gen Xers and millennials.

“While working in a team environment is not an issue for Gen Zs, the desire to work independently is perhaps their way to showcase their skills and abilities to their employers, as well as how much they value freedom and self-direction in their careers,” Jaeger Tanco, president and CEO of PhilCare, said.

What’s quite surprising, though, is that Gen Zs are still willing to come out of their shells and explore job opportunities abroad. One reason could be the fact that they can easily check and learn about other countries’ offerings—which, as we know, are often way better than ours—thanks, yet again, to social media. 

The study revealed that less than half (48 percent) of the younger generation wish to stay in the Philippines for work if given the option. In contrast, 54 percent of their older counterparts prefer to remain employed in the country.

“Their reason for seeking international employment is most likely the same — to experience a new culture and personal growth,” said Tanco. “After all, an international experience can boost one’s competitiveness and marketability in the global job market.”