One in three 18–24 year-olds has rejected a job offer based on ESG records.

In today's ever-evolving world, the younger generation is making waves once again. This time with their choices and actions when searching for employers. They're not just looking for any job; they're looking for organisations that back up their claims when it comes to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. According to a recent survey by KPMG UK, Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge, prioritising "climate quitting" and seeking out environmentally friendly workplaces. So, let's dive into the study and explore why ESG commitments are crucial to these critical-minded individuals.

What is “climate quitting”?

The survey shows that Millennials and Gen Z are not afraid to make bold moves for what they believe in. Among those aged 25-34, a whopping 55% consider ESG commitments from their employers essential. Even among 18-24 year-olds, 51% share this sentiment. These young individuals are leading the way in "climate quitting" to the point where one in three 18–24 year-olds has rejected a job offer based on ESG records.

Are there any other key factors?

It's not just about ESG; shared values matter too. A staggering 82% of respondents believe it's crucial to align their personal values and sense of purpose with the organisations they work for. And guess who's at the forefront of valuing this connection? The younger age brackets. An incredible 92% of 18-24 year-olds emphasise this aspect, followed closely by 86% of 25-34 year-olds and 84% of 35-44 year-olds. It's clear that organisations must go beyond ESG commitments and foster a sense of purpose and shared values to attract and retain upcoming younger talent.

Is it already happening?

The short answer is yes. Younger job seekers are already going the extra mile in their quest for the perfect fit. A significant number are actively researching a company's ESG credentials during their job search. This trend is particularly noticeable among those just starting their careers, with a whopping 45% of 18-24 year-olds diving deep into ESG aspects as part of the recruitment process. When evaluating potential employers, respondents highlighted two key areas: environmental impact (46%) and living wage policies (45%).

So what does it mean for organisations?

Gen Z and Millennials are not just the future; they're shaking up the present. If you want to attract and retain top talent, it's crucial to address ESG considerations head-on. Show that you're genuinely committed to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and strong governance practices. By incorporating ESG values into your core strategies, you'll create an appealing work environment that aligns perfectly with the expectations of the younger workforce.

The KPMG UK survey findings leave no room for doubt: Gen Z and millennials are reshaping the workplace landscape. They're not settling for just any job; they want meaningful work experiences that align with their values and contribute to a sustainable future. So, it's time to step up your ESG game and create a workplace that truly speaks to the younger generation.

Why not have a discussion with our Environment and Sustainability recruitment team about how you can attract the younger generation entering the workforce? We're always here for a chat.

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