Gen Z’s driven to quit over shoddy work tech

Technology at work is too slow, too old and could be the reason why one in five Gen Z workers are about to quit their job, according to new research carried out by enterprise content management developer Laserfiche.

Research polled over 1000 UK workers between the ages of 21 and 24 to find out how this generation views workplace technology, given they have only known a world of digital offerings.

Worryingly, 20% of respondents have quit their jobs because of the “useless” technology they use at work, while half (49%) of respondents said that while they hadn’t resigned yet, they would consider leaving their company due to outdated or difficult-to-use work tools.

The top frustrations for these younger employees are that the technology is too slow (54%), too old (35%) or there is lack of tools that help with time-consuming tasks (35%).

Another issue is that two thirds (66%) of this generation believe that they have much better tech at home. iPad or tablet use is far more prolific at home (53%) than at work (30%). And while 78% have access to a laptop at home, at work they are more likely to be expected to use their work’s desktop computer in three fifths (57%) of cases.

Half of respondents (46%) have high speed or fibre optic internet at home compared to only over a third (37%) in the workplace, while two-fifths (41%) have a virtual assistant at home compared to 1 in 10 (12%) at work.

Over half (53%) of respondents agreed that the technology used for work was “outdated and in need of an upgrade” with only 30% adding that this was not enough of a reason to leave a company.

Chris Wacker, CEO at Laserfiche, added that as companies battle with the Great Resignation, organisations needed to understand that the key to attracting and retaining talent is by improving the employee experience.

“The escalating global talent crisis has made headlines around the world and is showing no signs of slowing down. Gen Z’ers are used to better, more intuitive tech. Companies need to improve, otherwise the younger workforce will hand in their notice,” he said.

“If the pandemic has taught businesses anything, it is that employees need to come first. It’s up to businesses to foster the right environment, so that staff can flourish. When the workforce is happy and productive, it’s a win for employees and a win for employers.”