Inside Gen Z’s Workplace Wish List—and How July Society is Redefining the Work Experience
If there’s one thing Gen Z knows how to do, it’s shake things up—and the workplace is next on their agenda. Whether it’s demanding flexible hours, prioritizing mental health, or insisting on real diversity initiatives, this generation has its eyes set on changing how we work for the better.
July Society CEO, ZJ Hadley
In a recent article for Canada’s The Globe and Mail, ZJ Hadley— CEO of July Society—had a lot to say about Gen Z’s (totally valid) demands. Spoiler alert: We couldn’t agree more.
I Think New Folks … Are Sometimes a Bit More Optimistic.
Ms. Hadley notes, “I think new folks coming into the workplace are sometimes a bit more optimistic about how things are going to play out for them than what [employers] actually have to offer.”
At July Society, we see that optimism as a powerful force—one that companies can harness rather than deflate. After all, Gen Z isn’t asking for the moon; they’re asking for healthy work environments, real opportunities to advance, and leaders who actually value them. Makes sense, right? At some point, a fresh-faced 20-something won’t accept that “this is the way things have always been.” And they got the time and energy to challenge it.
The bottom line? Work doesn’t have to be gloom and doom. It can be exciting, collaborative, and growth-oriented—if employers are willing to adapt.
You Can Be Successful If You Just Work Hard.
Ms. Hadley also recalled buying into the old-school notion that hard work alone guarantees success. She points out, however, that “the incentive to work 40-hour weeks is no longer there for many young people in today’s economy.”
We say: Amen. Gen Z isn’t lazy; they’re simply unwilling to grind themselves into burnout for the promise of “maybe someday.” Instead, they prefer meaningful projects, flexibility, and an environment that supports well-being. That’s exactly why July Society offers:
Remote Co-Working: Work from the beach, your living room couch, or a cozy café—wherever you’re happiest and most productive.
Mindful Scheduling: Burnout is so last decade. We encourage our members to take breaks, prioritize mental health, and use work sprints for improved focus (minus the guilt).
Collaborative Community: Forget cutthroat competition. We share wins, cheer each other on, and genuinely root for your success.
“Accountability Sessions” FTW
One of Ms. Hadley’s top tips to her Gen Z clients? Don’t rely on managers alone for career advancement—build your own support system. She recommends “accountability sessions” with peers, a concept we adore.
Here at July Society, we’ve taken that advice to heart. We encourage members to:
Swap resources on career development
Support each other in taking risks
Celebrate milestones—big or small
Trust us, few things beat a hype squad that keeps you laser-focused on your goals (and is just a Slack DM away).
Redefining the Work Experience, One Virtual Desk at a Time
As Ms. Hadley noted, new talent (a.k.a. Gen Z) comes in with big ideas, fresh optimism, and a refusal to settle. That’s where July Society fits perfectly: We’re a flexible, inclusive, virtual co-working space designed to meet and exceed the high standards Gen Z brings to the table.
So, what’s on Gen Z’s wish list?
Real guidance – no more sink-or-swim.
Meaningful DEI policies – with proof, please.
Work-life balance – because 40-hour marathons for the sake of marathons don’t cut it.
Gender equity – show us the data, show us the representation.
Collaborative leadership – because top-down hierarchies? Hard pass.
And guess what? While we can’t grant Gen Z’s wishes in their individual workspaces, at July Society, we’re focused on doing everything we can in our shared space, to make them a reality for all. From curated programs for women and underrepresented founders to flexible membership models and accountability chats, we’re forging a new path—one where Gen Z, millennials, and every generation can thrive.
A Final Word from Our CEO (Because She’s Pretty Awesome)
If you take anything away from Ms. Hadley’s insights in The Globe and Mail, let it be this: Gen Z’s demands aren’t a threat; they’re an opportunity to create workplaces that actually serve the people within them. That means less burnout, more collaboration, and a whole lot more happiness.
Sound like your cup of (organic, fair-trade) tea? You think like us, and we’d love to have you join us. After all, life’s too short to dread Monday mornings.
Curious about joining July Society?
Come see how we’re building a better way to work. Dip into our virtual co-working space, connect with our vibrant community, and experience the future of work that Ms. Hadley (and the rest of us) are excited to usher in.
Because guess what? That future? It’s already here.