Less than 10% of Gen Z and millennials see leadership roles as their top career goal. However, they don’t lack ambition. Instead, they place strong emphasis on learning as a key factor in choosing and staying with an employer. Additionally, many dedicate time each week to developing new skills. To unlock their full potential, they seek leaders who coach, guide, and support their long-term growth. Unfortunately, many feel unsupported in their development. If organisations want to retain their best talent, they need to empower managers to lead in a more human-centred and future-focused way. 

Artificial intelligence may dominate headlines, but younger workers in Belgium aren’t receiving the training they need. Only 13% of Gen Z and 12% of millennials have completed GenAI training through their employer. Meanwhile, many express concern that their organisation is not doing enough to prepare them for the changes AI will bring. The lack of structured training leaves them uncertain about the long-term impact of AI on their careers and job security. 

Money provides a baseline of stability, but alignment with organisational values, opportunities to grow, mental health support, and work-life balance are equally decisive. The data shows clear links between each of these factors and reported happiness levels. Organisations cannot fully own employee happiness but do control many conditions that enable it.