Else Beekman
Nearly 100% of young professionals in Spain would consider leaving their jobs if they are unable to balance their work with personal life. According to the 2024 HR Challenges and Trends Study by Pluxee, 98% of Generation Z and 93% of Millennials would quit their jobs if their employers failed to offer a healthy work-life balance.
In contrast, only 54% of baby boomers would consider a similar decision, a recent study reveales. This points out a stark generational divide in attitudes toward workplace flexibility.
Work-life balance in Spain
The issue of work-life balance in Spain is a complex and socially significant challenge, impacting both individual well-being and corporate productivity. The concept of conciliación refers to the ability to balance professional responsibilities with personal and family needs, and the lack of it can lead to serious consequences.
Common sentiment
Rodrigo Casado, a 26-year-old biologist, shares a common sentiment among young workers in the newspaper El Confidencial: “I rejected a job because I had to work Saturdays. Weekends are for relaxing and escaping from work. I don’t work on Saturdays.” The study found that 42% of Generation Z workers would definitely seek a new job if unable to achieve work-life balance, while 56% would consider it. Among Millennials, 43% would change jobs, and 50% would be open to switching companies.
The numbers show a generational shift, with only 11% of baby boomers actively seeking a new job if faced with poor work-life balance, and 43% open to the possibility. Generation X members are more flexible, with 84% considering leaving for better conditions, but they still fall behind the younger workforce.
A growing demand for flexibility
Experts agree that work-life balance is non-negotiable for Generation Z. Studies from platforms like CVApp and Randstad Research emphasise that younger generations value flexibility and will not compromise their personal lives for a higher salary. Amanda Augustine, a talent development expert, notes, “Millennials and Generation Z don’t believe in presenteeism as a form of commitment. They prefer clear deadlines and the freedom to work from wherever they can.” In addition, the study highlights that women are more likely to leave a job if it disrupts their personal life. 89% of women considering a move compared to 82% of men.
Increasingly important for all ages
Although younger workers are leading the charge, the demand for work-life balance is growing across all generations. Pluxee reports that 54% of employees in Spain are dissatisfied with their company’s flexibility options, an increase from the previous year. Even among those content with their work-life balance, 85% would consider leaving if their circumstances changed. As Generation Z and Millennials continue to dominate the workforce, companies will need to adapt their policies to retain talent.
Legislative evolution
Efforts to address work-life balance in Spain began with significant legislative steps. The 1999 Law 39/1999, under José María Aznar’s government, was one of the first laws promoting the balance between family and work life, offering maternity leave protections and prohibiting pregnancy-related dismissals. This was followed by the Organic Law 3/2007, introduced under José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, which aimed to ensure gender equality and improved maternity and paternity leave.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted existing deficiencies in Spain’s work-life balance policies. The shift to remote work forced many families to juggle childcare and work responsibilities, revealing the urgent need for more comprehensive policies.
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