Generation Z and the reality of employment in Indonesia:   A problematic portrait of the youngest workforce

Raafi Herdiansyah Putra; Ambar Sari Dewi

doi:10.55942/pssj.v5i12.781

Authors

Raafi Herdiansyah Putra UIN Sunan Kalijaga https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2799-7629
Ambar Sari Dewi UIN Sunan Kalijaga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7542-6688

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55942/pssj.v5i12.781

Keywords:

employment, gen z, job preferences, generation gap

Abstract

The employment problems experienced by Generation Z (born in 1997-2012) as the youngest workforce are currently attracting the attention of many parties. Various studies and the existing literature show that employment problems are structural and cultural. However, from various studies and literature, there is still not much comprehensive discussion of the various employment problems experienced by this generation. Therefore, this study aims to describe the various employment problems experienced by Gen Z. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach through library research with Miles and Huberman’s interactive model of data analysis techniques. The results of this study show that there are four main categories that color the dynamics of Gen Z employment: the decline in employment in the formal sector, the generation gap and differences in work preferences, the tendency to be voluntarily unemployed, and the dynamics of the gig economy that color the Gen Z job market. The findings show that Generation Z's employment problems are related to limited employment opportunities and changes in the orientation, values, and expectations of the younger generation towards the world of work, which are interrelated. This research is expected to contribute academically and practically to current employment issues, especially as a study material for developing employment policies that are pro-Gen Z and benefit many parties.

Author Biographies

Raafi Herdiansyah Putra, UIN Sunan Kalijaga

Raafi Herdiansyah Putra is a Magister of Sociology student at UIN Sunan Kalijaga University Yogyakarta. Focusing on various social issues that develop in society including the field of economic sociology. Has an experience in several scientific publications published in several national accredited journals.

Ambar Sari Dewi, UIN Sunan Kalijaga

Senior lecture at UIN Sunan Kalijaga University Yogyakarta. Experienced Research and Development Coordinator with a demonstrated history of working in the research industry. Skilled in Innovation, SME development, Social Media, Research, and Community Development. Strong research professional with a Master’s Degree focused in Sociology from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and a PhD in Business and Innovation from The University of Queensland.

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