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What do students expect from the professional world? SKEMA X EY barometer provides some answers
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SKEMA Business School and EY have published the results of their first joint barometer, conducted by OpinionWay, to understand students' expectations. The study, carried out in September 2022 with more than 1,400 French and international SKEMA students across all campuses, aimed to understand students' aspirations in terms of their first job, finding meaning in work, and perceptions of working conditions, as well as corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Consistency between personal fulfilment and professional integrity is a priority, reveals the SKEMA X EY barometer, which examined the expectations of young people regarding the work.
According to this study, the priority criteria determining professional orientation are based both on career and learning potential, and on company values. Many students consider that a job "with meaning" is one that motivates and stimulates them, allows them to develop professionally, remains in line with their convictions, and is useful to society.
Corporate social responsibility expectations
Regarding companies' priority commitments, respondents expect respect for ethics in economic activities, gender equality, and reduction in negative environmental impact. Students are generally confident about their professional future, although uncertainties remain due to the current context (inflation, war in Ukraine, etc.).
Emphasis on work-life balance
The relationship to working time has been transformed by the health crisis, with increased importance given to the balance between professional and personal life. Nearly 96% of those surveyed believe that fulfilment comes from a harmonious reconciliation between these two aspects. They also believe that they should be able to express themselves within their company and assert their opinions or propose ideas, even at the beginning of their career.
Remote work: not necessarily a determining criterion
A positive working atmosphere and support from inspiring managers are essential for students. They place less importance on remote work than on workplace atmosphere, with almost half of them believing that remote work is not suitable for a first job. On this point, the study shows that respondents recommend an average of 1.7 days of remote work per week. Generation Z seeks a balance between personal fulfilment and professional integrity, in line with their convictions and aspirations regarding CSR. They are also attentive to the workplace atmosphere and manager’s support.
Through the strong participation of students to respond to this survey, the results provided by the SKEMA X EY barometer are representative of the work trend among Generation Z. We are grateful to all the participants!
