Generation Alpha: What the Next Generation of Workers Expect from Employers
Generation Alpha - those born between 2010 and 2024 - will soon begin to enter the workforce. As the first truly digital-native generation, they’ve grown up in a world shaped by digital fluency, social awareness, and a growing focus on mental health and inclusion.
At Benenden Health, we wanted to understand what this means for the future of work. So, we launched a new research-led campaign to explore what Gen Alpha expect from their future employers - and how businesses can start preparing now.
What Gen Alpha told us
We surveyed 500 young people aged 13–18 and their parents, alongside 500 HR decision-makers, to understand what matters most to this generation - and how aligned current workplace strategies are with their expectations.
Here’s what we found:
77% of Gen Alpha say mental health support is important in a future workplace.
47% want to work for a company that supports neurodivergent employees.
46% are looking for roles that align with their personal values.
49% say flexible working hours are important.
50% say being happy in their job is more important than being highly paid.
These findings reflect a generation that values wellbeing, inclusion, and purpose. They’re also more likely to be aware of neurodivergence - 15% of those surveyed identified as neurodivergent themselves, and 6 in 10 said they know someone who is.
What this means for employers
While Gen Alpha may still be in education, they’re already thinking about their futures - and businesses should be too. Our research shows that employers who invest in inclusive, flexible, and wellbeing-focused cultures will be better placed to attract and retain this next generation of talent.
Encouragingly, many HR leaders are already taking action:
83% say making workplaces suitable for neurodivergent people is important.
64% have seen an increase in requests for reasonable adjustments.
77% say their organisation is taking steps to make workplaces more inclusive.
From creating quiet spaces and offering flexible working, to training managers on neurodiversity and mental health, there are practical steps employers can take now to future-proof their workplace.
Looking ahead
Gen Alpha may not be submitting CVs just yet - but they’re already shaping the future of work. Now is the time for employers to reflect, adapt, and lead the way in creating healthier, more inclusive workplaces that meet the needs of every generation.
Download the full Generation Alpha Workforce Report to explore the findings and discover how your organisation can prepare.
For more information on how to better look after your employees' wellbeing, head over to our mental health workplace hub. You can also find out how to keep your workforce happy and healthy by signing up to our employee engagement newsletter.
