A national survey of Canadian workers reveals stark generational divides in workplace priorities, with younger employees placing significantly stronger emphasis on purpose-driven work, environmental sustainability, and job security than their older counterparts.
The Workplace Values Survey, commissioned by First Onsite Property Restoration and conducted by Angus Reid in February 2025, polled 1,501 Canadian workers across age groups. The results show 68 per cent of millennials and 65 per cent of Gen Z workers say it is important to work in an industry that helps people, compared to 52 per cent of baby boomers.
Sustainability and social impact
More than half of Canadian workers (52 per cent) believe it is important to work for an organization focused on sustainability. That figure rises to 58 per cent among both millennials and Gen Z workers, compared to 46 per cent of boomers.
“Purpose is a talent magnet and the desire to make a positive impact remains a powerful motivator in the workforce, especially among younger generations,” said Leah Pearson, senior director of human resources at First Onsite.
Healthcare gaps persist
More than one in five Canadians (22 per cent) report not having a primary healthcare provider. The problem is more acute among younger workers, with 26 per cent of both Gen Z and millennials lacking access to a family doctor, compared to 14 per cent of boomers.
Job stability concerns rise
Over one-third of Canadian workers (35 per cent) worry that geopolitical developments such as trade protectionism or economic nationalism could affect their employment. Concerns peak among Gen Z (43 per cent) and millennials (42 per cent), compared to 24 per cent of boomers.
Climate-related workplace anxiety also skews younger. Overall, 19 per cent of Canadians worry that climate events could impact their jobs, rising to 26 per cent among millennials and 23 per cent among Gen Z workers.
High turnover expected among young workers
Nearly one-third of Gen Z workers (32 per cent) plan to quit or change jobs in 2025. That compares to 20 per cent of millennials, 18 per cent of Gen X workers, and just five per cent of boomers.
Wellbeing viewed as fundamental right
Across all age groups, 85 per cent of Canadian workers view employee wellbeing as a human right rather than a workplace benefit. The figure has remained above 85 per cent for three consecutive years in First Onsite’s annual survey.
“Wellbeing must be embedded into every aspect of the workplace, not as a perk, but as a core responsibility,” said Pearson. “That’s how we create environments where people can truly thrive.”
The survey was conducted between Feb. 19 and Feb. 21, 2025, among a representative sample of online Canadians who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted in English and French.
