Workers remain ambitious about their careers but are increasingly looking outside traditional jobs for opportunities and income, according to new research from SurveyMonkey.
The 2025 Workplace Culture and Trends report, released Aug. 20, found nearly half of employees see little chance of advancement in their current jobs, while three-quarters already have or are considering a side hustle.
SurveyMonkey reported that 43 per cent of workers see few or no opportunities for advancement where they are employed. The divide is sharper for experienced professionals (48 per cent) compared with entry-level staff (43 per cent) and managers (37 per cent).
Generational differences are also clear. Only 28 per cent of Gen Z employees are satisfied with their current role, compared with 38 per cent of millennials and 47 per cent of Gen X. Younger workers are more likely to seek promotions outside their organization, with one-third saying they would change companies to move up, compared with 24 per cent of millennials and 22 per cent of Gen X.
Ambition remains strong
Despite limited opportunities, ambition is high. Two-thirds of workers said they want to reach executive or ownership roles during their career, with 80 per cent of Gen Z aiming for the top. By comparison, 70 per cent of millennials and 57 per cent of Gen X expressed the same goal.
Women, however, are less likely than men to want senior leadership roles (58 per cent versus 68 per cent). Individual contributors also showed less interest (58 per cent) compared with managers and senior leaders (76 per cent).
Financial pressures drive side hustles
The study found 72 per cent of employees either have or are considering a side hustle. More than a third (37 per cent) already have one, while 35 per cent are considering it.
Workers cited three main reasons:
- 48 per cent: saving for financial goals
- 44 per cent: covering basic expenses
- 37 per cent: developing new skills
SurveyMonkey said money influences career choices for two-thirds of respondents. Nearly nine in 10 reported delaying major life milestones until reaching a certain income level.
Work-life balance under pressure
Most workers (78 per cent) said they enjoy a healthy work-life balance, yet 65 per cent also believe sacrificing personal time is required for career success.
An overwhelming 85 per cent said they receive work-related communications outside normal hours at least a few times a month. Among them, 58 per cent respond at least a few times a week, and 30 per cent reply daily.
One in three workers said they feel pressure to respond promptly to avoid negative perceptions from managers or colleagues.
Disconnect between managers and staff
The survey also highlighted differences between individual contributors and senior leaders. Fewer than one in three contributors (32 per cent) believe senior leadership is fully transparent when asked about company strategy, compared with 56 per cent of senior leaders who believe they are open.
Managers were also more likely to expect employees to sacrifice work-life balance for success. While 63 per cent of individual contributors agreed with that statement, the number rose to 74 per cent among senior leaders.
The findings are based on a survey of 3,573 full-time U.S. workers conducted from July 25 to Aug. 3, 2025. SurveyMonkey said the modeled error estimate is plus or minus two percentage points.
