Polling the U.K. frontline

Gen Z’s training and skills gaps

Gen Z has grown up with on-demand learning—videos, forums, instant feedback. They want to succeed and learn fast, but most are stepping into frontline roles without the training to do it.
What happens when the U.K.’s youngest working cohort enters the frontline without real support?

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The reality: One-and-done training doesn’t cut it

Gen Z workers want to perform—but they’re not being set up to succeed. Most say their training stopped at onboarding, and nearly half say it was boring or irrelevant.

Key findings:

  • Only 25% received any training beyond onboarding
  • 82% have faced situations where a lack of training made it hard to do their job
  • 48% found the training boring
  • 39% didn’t have time to absorb it
Key insight: Training is supposed to build confidence. But for Gen Z, it’s often confusing, irrelevant or nonexistent—leaving them uncertain and overwhelmed.

The consequences: Anxiety, doubt and disconnection

When basic support is missing, it’s not just about missed tasks—it’s about mindset. Gen Z workers are questioning whether they even belong.

Gen Z Consequences Graph

Key insight: This isn’t a question of work ethic. It’s a question of preparation. And without proper training, even motivated workers may consider leaving if the support isn’t there.

The gap: Gen Z wants training that’s real, relevant and repeatable

Gen Z knows how they learn best—and it’s not through lectures or static manuals. They want training that fits into the flow of work: short, mobile and interactive. They’re not asking for hand-holding. They’re asking for practical, personalised support that reflects the real challenges of the job and helps them succeed from day one.

What Gen Z Frontline Workers Want Graph

Key insight: Gen Z isn’t disengaged—they’re under-supported. They’re asking for the right kind of training, not more of the same approach that doesn’t fit their day-to-day realities.

The solution: Training that fits the shift, not disrupts it

Gen Z frontline workers don’t want training that pulls them away from the job. They want training that’s part of it—quick, relevant, mobile and consistent.

If Gen Z got the kind of training they’re asking for: 88% would feel more confident in tough situations 79% would be more productive 72% would feel more satisfied at work 71% would stay longer 58% would feel less burned out

What they want from training now:

  • Embedded in daily routines
  • Delivered in short, snackable formats
  • Accessible on mobile
  • Grounded in real frontline challenges

Key insight: To retain rising talent, companies must treat training as a continuous part of the job, not a one-time download.

📥 Want to dig deeper into Gen Z’s expectations and learn how to support the U.K.’s youngest frontline workers?

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