Dalton Discovers Over 60% of Gen Z College Graduates Have Positive Outlooks on Their Future
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Welcome to Dalton Discovers, our agency’s dynamic research series where we uncover the insights, motivations and sentiments shaping industries and influencing markets. At Dalton, we know that understanding people is key to driving results. Through our research and strategy capabilities, we explore a wide range of topics across diverse industries and markets to provide actionable insights that empower brands to connect meaningfully with their audiences.
the study: In our inaugural study, Dalton set out to discover how recent Gen Z college graduates are planning to advance their careers. As they step into the workforce, understanding their perspectives is crucial for employers to effectively support and engage with this emerging generation of talent.
the methodology: We posed a series of four questions to 400 individuals, aged 22 – 27-years-old, and college graduates from across the country. Our inquiries ranged from their strategies for career advancement to their overall outlook for the future.
the takeaways:
- Impact of Work Experience:
64% believe entry-level jobs or internships have a significant impact on career advancement, underscoring the value of practical experience.
- Perception of Job Prospects:
28% feel their current job prospects are “about as expected” compared to their college expectations, indicating alignment with prior predictions.
- Educational Path Choices:
39% would choose the same educational path if they had a chance to go back in time, reflecting satisfaction with their fields of study despite market challenges.
- Optimism for the Future:
65% express optimism about future happiness and financial security, an encouraging sign for employers looking to engage this generation.
As Gen Z steps confidently into their careers, it seems they’ve mastered the art of balancing optimism with realism—much like juggling an oat milk latte while scrolling through TikTok on their morning commute. Whether it’s consumer behavior, industry trends, or emerging market opportunities, our goal is to illuminate the nuances that drive understanding across various sectors.
Interested in learning more about your audiences’? Let’s chat.
