Since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic, employment rates have been falling. Now Hiring and Help Wanted signs are a constant in most business windows, and online job listings are seemingly endless. But as of mid-2021, low employment rates are a purposeful choice of workers. The Great Resignation has been claimed as a labour shortage with some claiming many people are lazy and refusing to work due to being paid by government pandemic relief programs, but I disagree. This labour phenomenon has been a display of power on the part of young employees across Canada and the United States as young people, Gen Z and Millennials, are following passions and finding jobs that complement their lives instead of making them more difficult.
In an article by Leah Golob at the Globe and Mail, it’s stated that the younger generations have more power than they may realize as they are in the position of making employers accommodate their needs as employees. They have influence over their employers on work conditions, return to office policies, company culture, and benefit options. This is a turning point for all young people, but particularly recent graduates and those just entering the workforce as it shows that they have options and can fight for what they truly want; they are allowed to choose opportunities that they are excited for and enthusiastic about.
A common trend on social media platforms such as TikTok, Gen Z are sharing their stories of quitting their jobs. They are explaining why and why they share no remorse in such situations. They are standing up for themselves in ways generations before were too scared to. This is just one of many examples of how as Gen Z ages they are forcing positive changes for themselves and others.