Gen Z Isn't Lazy, The System Is Broken: What Employers Need to Hear

Published by Rebecca Heald | The Heald Approach Podcast Helping leaders in construction rewrite the rules and rewire the system.

💥 Gen Z Work Culture: Boundaries Over Burnout

One of the most powerful insights Sonny shared was this:

"We’re not going to flog ourselves to death working... If people treat us with respect, we’ll give you our best."

This is Gen Z work culture in action. It’s not about being unwilling to work hard — it’s about refusing to sacrifice mental health and personal values for employers who still wear burnout as a badge of honour.

If your business still operates on fear, presenteeism, and rigid hierarchies — you’re going to lose the very talent you need to survive.

🔗 Related Resource: Why Leadership Needs a Rewire

💼 UK Apprenticeships: A Broken System Driving Talent Away

Let’s talk about the UK apprenticeship system because Sonny did, and he didn’t hold back.

From automated rejections within 60 minutes, to unclear job expectations, to apprentices being used as cheap labour, it’s no wonder there’s a 47% dropout rate in apprenticeships across the UK.

“I know someone who’s doing a full department’s work but they’re still paid as an apprentice.”

This isn’t a pipeline problem. It’s a leadership one. If we want to attract young people into construction, we need to design a system that respects, supports, and develops early-career professionals not crushes them.

🔗 External Link: Apprenticeships Overview – GOV.UK

🏢 Hybrid Working in Construction: What Gen Z Actually Wants

Another standout moment:

"Why do I need to be in an office 24/7? I get more done at home."

Sonny is part of a generation raised with digital fluency. Collaboration doesn’t require physical proximity. It requires trust, flexibility, and good leadership. Hybrid working in construction isn’t just possible, in many roles, it’s preferable.

And for neurodivergent professionals, many of whom thrive with asynchronous communication and flexible hours, this shift isn’t optional. It’s essential.

🔗 Workshop: Contact Rebecca for details on her workshops 'The Neurodivergent Apprentice: Unlocking Hidden Talent in Construction'

🧠 Inclusive Leadership: Stop Underestimating Young Talent

“I quoted the clause from the British Standard. The contractor froze.”

Sonny proved a point many older leaders still haven’t grasped: knowledge doesn’t always come with grey hair. It comes from passion, curiosity, and relentless self-education, traits that many young professionals in construction already carry in spades.

If your workplace still makes assumptions based on age, background, or job title, you’re not just being biased. You’re missing out.

🔗 External Link: Women Talking Fire – Andrea White

🚀 What Should Employers Do Next?

If you want to attract, and retain, talent like Sonny, ask yourself:

• Are your recruitment processes inclusive and human?

• Is your apprenticeship programme structured and supportive?

• Are you investing in leadership training that values diversity of thought?

• Do you offer flexibility, progression and purpose or just a payslip?

Because Gen Z isn’t waiting. They’re watching.

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode:

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💬 Final Thought

Gen Z doesn’t want to be rescued. They want to be respected.

And if your organisation is serious about creating a future-proof, inclusive, and sustainable business, the first step is this:

Listen to what they’re telling you.

Because they’re not lazy. They’re just not willing to repeat your mistakes.

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Tag a colleague, HR lead, or construction director still calling the next generation “entitled” and ask them if their system is actually working.