Generation Z is "The Change Generation,"because all of the recent global events increase their desire tomake a difference in their future careers — and it alsoexacerbates their need for more "mental health support" from theiremployers, according to Lovell Corp.'s "2017 Change Generation Repo: HowMillennials and Generation Z Are Redefining Work."

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In partnership with the University of Guelph, Lovell Corp. surveyed more than 2,000 youngpeople between the ages of 14 and 36 years-old across Canada. Thesurvey found that while millennials (born between 1980 and 1993)seek jobs that provide stability, convenience and balance, Gen Z(born 1994 or after) is more readily concerned with fueling theirpassions and taking pride in the work they do.

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Related: Millennials: Reaching a new generation of employeesand customers

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"We can describe millennials as driven by growth and lifestyle,and Generation Z as driven by growth and passion," the authorswrite. "For the first time, we see a generation prioritizingpurpose in their work."

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Support wanted from employers

There's also a difference in what types of support eachgeneration wants from employers. Millennials place the greatestemphasis on employability supports such as education, training, andcareer support, whereas Gen Z seeks greater mental healthsupports.

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"With rising rates of anxiety and depression among youth, theemphasis placed on mental health by Generation Z suggests that thetough labor market and precarious school-to-work transition istaking its toll on young professionals," the authors write."Offering added personal supports to help young professionalstransition to new positions, cope with stress and ultimately excelin their roles will help foster better retention andperformance."

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Part of this need is being driven by formative events around theworld that have left "an indelible imprint" on them, according tothe report. But while events have caused a certain amount of stressand anxiety, it has also pushed these generations further to make adifference in their careers.

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Related: 10 ways for insurance agents to engage GenXers

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"Both millennials and Gen Z have been raised in times ofpolitical strife and global crisis, sparking a strong aspirationfor equality and inclusion," the authors write. "Youngprofessionals are bringing these motivations to the workplace andin doing so reshaping businesses to prioritize diversity, inclusionand gender equality."

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Financial security important to both generations

When asked what career success means to them, both generationsrated financial security as the most important factor, which can beattributed to high rates of youth unemployment, competitive jobmarket, and career uncertainty that lingers in the current economyfor many young professionals, according to the report.

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Next on the list is the importance of workplace culture andinclusivity.

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"A notable difference between the two generations was GenerationZ's stronger inclination to consider positive workrelationships and impact as a determinant of their career success,"the authors write.

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Related: 10 reasons why an insurance career is great formillennials

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If employers want to retain younger workers, both generationswant organizations to provide job security, build a strong employerbrand for ethics and social responsibility, and take work-lifebalance seriously.

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Gen Z has witnessed struggles of millennials

"Born with the same innate desire to have purpose, Generation Zseek meaningful work that aligns with their passion and will createimpact," the authors write. "Having witnessed theemployment struggles of millennials however, Gen Z exhibits cautionand prioritizes their personal growth and success."

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Employers that understand the underlying career motivations ofeach generation will be better able to both attract and retainworkers, the authors conclude.  "This is ageneration that knows what they want and are driven to seizeopportunities to step up their game to achieve it."

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Related: 12 ways to engage millennials in insurance andfinance careers

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Katie Kuehner-Hebert ([email protected]) is an award-winningfreelance journalist. 

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