Gen Z in Romania wants offices to provide growth and belonging, not just eork

Generation Z professionals in Romania are not rejecting the office, but they expect it to be redefined as a space that fosters learning, growth, and meaningful connections, according to Colliers consultants. A new analysis shows that only 1% of young Romanians consider working fully remotely as a true motivator, while the vast majority seek purpose, balance, and opportunities for development at work.

Born between 1997 and 2012, Generation Z is entering the labour market with priorities that differ from older cohorts. According to a study by Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, 67% of young people place work–life balance first, and 66% emphasise fair pay. By contrast, very few see exclusive remote work as desirable. For them, the office offers what home cannot: a sense of belonging, mentorship, and face-to-face interaction.

This trend is consistent with international data. A recent Gallup survey found that only 23% of Gen Z globally would prefer a fully remote role—the lowest proportion among all age groups. Analysts attribute this to higher levels of loneliness among young remote workers and a greater need for direct interaction in the workplace. While hybrid models remain popular, flexibility is seen as a baseline expectation rather than a perk.

What distinguishes Gen Z is not their preference for trendy office design, but for workplaces that deliver authentic leadership, recognition, and clear opportunities for advancement. “Generation Z is an important ally of the modern workplace. They are not avoiding work, they want it to have purpose and create value,” said George Didoiu, Director, Tenant Services, Office 360 at Colliers. He added that companies responding to these expectations could build healthier, more resilient teams grounded in trust and shared values.

In practice, this means young employees are looking for more than attractive perks. They want recognition of achievements, inclusive environments, and career paths that are stable and predictable. Colliers suggests that companies rethink office spaces as catalysts for learning and innovation, rather than as static places of work.

The findings come against a backdrop of lower labour force participation rates among young Romanians compared with EU peers. According to Eurostat and Romania’s National Institute of Statistics (INS), only 40% of those aged 20–24 participate in the labour market, with many still in education. For the 25–29 age group—largely overlapping with Gen Z—the participation rate reaches 77%, well below the EU average of 84%, the second-lowest level in the Union. Analysts argue this highlights the need for public policies that encourage smoother transitions from education into employment.

Source: Colliers Romania