Generational trends impacting the Irish workplace

Hays Ireland’s spring report has highlighted the key trends and concerns shaping the country’s workforce.

According to recruitment agency Hays Ireland, a number of generational trends have emerged among employees in Ireland’s workforce, with topics such as hybrid working and AI adoption of particular importance. Hays collected data from more than 700 employers and employees in a range of industries across various industry sectors during the month of February.

“Our Spring Research highlights key workforce trends across generations,” Hays Ireland said. “Understanding how different age groups perceive changes like hybrid working and AI adoption is crucial for employers looking to adapt and support their teams effectively.”

Job market shifts

Unsurprisingly, job mobility continues to be of great importance to Irish employees, with almost half (49pc) intending to change organisations some time in the next six months, a 4pc increase from 2024. For those in the 40-50 age group, this was largely driven by salary concerns and a perceived lack of future career opportunities. 

In the past six months, 20pc of employees explained that they have already switched jobs, with nearly half of those being in the middle-aged category. According to the report, employees in the middle to later part of their careers are increasingly open to professional change, challenging the traditional idea that job stability is preferable at this stage of life. 

Hybrid work also continues to shape workplace dynamics and attitudes, however the efficacy of flexible models and the long-term career impact varies from person to person. 53pc of respondents stated that they have noticed no change in their career development as a result of hybrid working. 

Millennials, however, were shown to be more optimistic, as 30pc said hybrid working has given them the opportunity to progress their careers and upskill. Only 5pc are of the opinion that hybrid working has had a negative impact on their careers.

While 81pc agreed that they work more efficiently from home and notably, more than half (52pc) of participating employees said they would consider leaving their jobs if forced to return to full-time in-person work. This was most commonly felt by millennial and GenX employees. 

“Career mobility is an emerging trend that presents new opportunities,” said Maureen Lynch, MD of Hays Ireland.

“For employers, this is a chance to engage and retain talent by investing in meaningful career progressions and skills development. Ireland has long been a hub of adaptability and resilience, and with the right talent, both employers and employees can transform challenges into opportunities for long-term success.”

Workplace stressors

It was also discovered that 65pc of employees frequently experience imposter syndrome. That is the unfounded feeling that they are not qualified to be in the position they are in. More than half of respondents who reported feelings of imposter syndrome are either millennial or GenX, indicating that even seasoned professionals are experiencing it.

Meanwhile, 35pc of employees report never having experienced imposter syndrome.

“With recent graduates and career changers, many new employees bring fresh perspectives, but may struggle with confidence due to limited professional experience. Imposter syndrome is not confined to one demographic – it spans industries, ages and job levels.”

The report also indicates that employees may be experiencing stress around the inconsistent adoption of AI technologies. 67pc of respondents said they have yet to incorporate AI into their daily work, with 83pc explaining that they have received no training or support that would help them better integrate AI tech.

There is, however, a strong interest in upskilling with employees expressing a desire to learn more about how AI can enhance their roles.

“As we navigate a period of global uncertainty, the Irish workforce is at a pivotal moment, reflecting both local and international trends,” Lynch said.

“Challenges such as imposter syndrome are increasingly common, yet they also represent a workforce that is ambitious and eager to grow. 

“To guide employees through self-doubt and unlock their full potential, organisations must foster a supportive environment, one that prioritises open communications and offers practical resources like mentorship and coaching to help professionals thrive.”

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