Gen Z Job Hopping Averages 1.1 Years as 'Lily Padding' Gains Ground

2 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 14

Gen Z workers are increasingly using "lily padding"—moving between jobs to build skills and reach better roles faster—rather than staying with one employer.
Randstad data from 11,250 workers shows Gen Z employees stay an average 1.1 years in their first five career years, versus 1.8 years for millennials and nearly three years for older workers.
Career jumpers say the strategy can broaden experience even without immediate big pay rises: Brittany Harris-Nelson held 10 jobs across six universities in a decade before landing a desired Wake Forest role.
UK evidence suggests the moves can pay off over time: Wealthify found workers who changed jobs at least four times in a decade earned £39,276 on average, versus £30,088 for others—a 31% premium.
Employers and workplace advisers say the shift reflects post-pandemic work habits and weaker faith in loyalty, with younger staff seeking faster development, variety and skills that will stay relevant.