Despite the entry-level job apocalypse, half of Gen Z are planning to look for new work elsewhere before the end of the year

Job hunting has been brutal for young professionals, with a sluggish hiring market, AI filters, and thousands of other competitors. But even those who managed to score a gig are finding themselves wanting to leave it.

Around 55% of Gen Z professionals plan to look for a new job before the end of this year, according to recent data from recruitment and staffing firm Robert Half. That’s a huge jump from 2025, when only 32% were on the hunt. And the opportunity to earn more is a “major factor” in their plan to switch jobs: more than half of the young professionals believe that switching employers could boost their salaries. Beyond a bigger paycheck, they’re also looking for better benefits, flexibility, and the chance to grow their careers.

“Career expectations have shifted for many younger professionals, and Gen Z tends to be especially intentional about finding roles that align with where they want to go professionally,” Dawn Fay, operational president at Robert Half, tells Fortune. “When they feel stalled or don’t see room to grow, they seem to be comfortable exploring new opportunities rather than waiting for those circumstances to change.” 

It’s a striking disconnect as many workers are keeping their heads down in today’s job market.........

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