Survey reveals that Gen Z interns are fearful of AI and prefer flexible schedules

Gen Z is an enigma to most employers. Bosses are both frustrated and pleasantly surprised by the young generation’s newfound expectations, often struggling with how to engage them. But one company is taking matters into its own hands by asking its intern class what they really want out of the workplace.

KPMG, a tax and advisory firm, conducted a survey in August of around 400 interns. It found that when it came to the things that this cohort is looking for in their professional lives, quality company culture topped the list at 64%. That was followed by a sense of belonging achieved through positive team dynamics at 37%, volunteering opportunities at 34%, and direct manager mentorship at 32%.

“Culture has really become the forefront of what Gen Z is looking for in their organization,” Derek Thomas, national partner-in-charge of university talent acquisition at KPMG, tells Fortune. “Younger generations are looking for their organization’s purpose, and, ‘What is my purpose?’ They like to be part of an organization that allows them to get out there and volunteer and make a difference.”

These Gen Z interns also deeply value the ability to work remotely. Half of them find flexible work environments the most appealing among workplace trends, with 23% ranking four-day workweeks as the most attractive. KPMG is currently hybrid, with some workers allowed to work a condensed schedule based on their life circumstances. 

But the report goes a little bit deeper than just office preferences—interns shared their fears as well. About 82% of the cohort expressed concern that AI could hinder or entirely eliminate the progression of their foundational skills that are important to achieving their long-term career aspirations. And another 75% believe that the advanced technology could automate at least 20% of job tasks by the time they start a full-time role.

“It’s primarily because it’s brand new and it’s uncertain. People aren’t sure, and that puts concern and potentially fear into a lot of folks,” says Thomas. “We’re learning a lot about it as we go. Some of those concerns will start to digress, because they’ll be able to see more and more of it in action.”

But despite their robot hesitations, the cohort was overall very upbeat about their careers. Around 97% of KPMG interns were optimistic about their job or career prospects over the next 10 years, with 61% saying that they’re “very optimistic.”

Emma Burleigh
emma.burleigh@fortune.com

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