61% of Workers Deem Stable Full-Time Job a Myth

The once-stable 9-to-5 job is increasingly becoming a thing of the past. Workers are struggling to thrive in a challenging economy, and few are even aspiring for traditional corporate success. More than half of workers (61%) believe the idea of a “stable full-time job” is a myth in today’s hiring landscape, including 72% of Gen Z professionals. Around 42% of all respondents, and more than half of Gen Z (52%) say they have side hustles or second jobs—not by choice, but because their current pay doesn’t meet their financial needs.

“For employers, these insights are a call to action,” says David Patterson, director of communications at Checkr. “In a time when polywork is often a necessity, companies that take meaningful steps to support their employees’ financial stability might earn stronger loyalty and stand out as employers of choice.”

If you thought that financial duress is making workers feel motivated to aim for the corporate office, think again. The majority of employees are unenthused by the prospect of becoming a boss—around 76% of workers overall agree that leadership roles are unattractive because of things like burnout and office politics, including 80% of Gen X and 76% of millennials. Around 61% of workers say that the climb up the corporate ladder feels outdated, with Gen Z and millennials just about tied at 65% and 62% respectively.

Even as workers become increasingly disillusioned with traditional career paths, however, they’re still looking for a sense of purpose at work. Around 45% of employees overall said that they would take a pay cut if they had a job that was in sync with their values, but still offered room for career growth. That’s particularly true for younger generations like Gen Z (52%) and millennials (46%).

“By recognizing that today’s workers want more than just titles—they want meaningful work, personal growth, and purpose-driven cultures—companies can design career paths that truly inspire,” the report reads.

A recent report has shed light on the growing pessimism among workers in corporate America, revealing a significant shift in attitudes towards job stability and leadership. The report indicates that a substantial majority of workers, 61%, no longer believe in the concept of a "stable full-time job." This sentiment is particularly pronounced among younger generations, with 72% of Gen Z professionals sharing this view. The findings suggest a widespread disillusionment with the traditional notion of career stability, as workers increasingly perceive their jobs as temporary or subject to frequent changes.

The report also highlights a reluctance among workers to take on leadership roles. This aversion to leadership positions can be attributed to several factors, including the perceived increase in job insecurity and the demanding nature of leadership roles in today's corporate environment. Workers may feel that the risks associated with leadership positions, such as increased responsibility and potential job loss, outweigh the benefits. This trend is concerning for companies, as it indicates a potential shortage of future leaders and a lack of motivation among employees to advance their careers.

The pessimism among workers is not limited to job stability and leadership roles. The report also reveals a general sense of dissatisfaction with the current state of corporate America. Workers feel that their voices are not being heard and that their concerns are not being addressed by their employers. This lack of engagement and communication can lead to decreased job satisfaction and productivity, further exacerbating the issues faced by companies.

The findings of the report have significant implications for both workers and employers. For workers, it is important to recognize the changing nature of the job market and to adapt their expectations and career goals accordingly. For employers, it is crucial to address the concerns of their employees and to create a more supportive and engaging work environment. This may involve providing more opportunities for professional development, offering flexible work arrangements, and fostering a culture of open communication and collaboration.

In conclusion, the report reveals a deep-seated pessimism among workers in corporate America, with a majority no longer believing in the concept of a stable full-time job and a reluctance to take on leadership roles. This trend highlights the need for both workers and employers to adapt to the changing job market and to work together to create a more supportive and engaging work environment.