The future of work is evolving, shaped by the expectations of Generation Alpha. Research from the International Workplace Group reveals that this emerging generation envisions a transformed working environment by 2040, characterized by hybrid models, reduced commuting, and an increased reliance on AI and automation.
The survey engaged 11 to 17-year-olds alongside their parents and uncovered that 86% of Generation Alpha anticipates their career experiences will be vastly different from those of their parents.
This study highlights a shift in perceptions regarding work locations and communication methods, signaling a future enriched with immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality in professional settings.
Commute Changes
Commuting emerged as a key distinction between present work trends and the expectations of younger generations. Only 29% of Gen Alpha members foresee commuting over 30 minutes for their jobs.
Additionally, 75% of respondents prioritize minimizing commuting time, largely driven by a desire for more family time as adults.
Supporting research from Singapore indicates similar sentiments regarding commuting. A YouGov survey, commissioned by Budget Direct Insurance, revealed that 56% of commuters spending 46 to 60 minutes on their travel consider it excessive. This perception increased to 77% among those commuting for 61 to 75 minutes. Furthermore, 95% of respondents stated that the length of a commute significantly impacts their job decisions.
The study also mentioned projected transportation developments in Singapore, forecasting that by the 2030s, 80% of households will be within a 10-minute walk of a train station.
AI Expectations
The findings show that 88% of Generation Alpha anticipates regularly collaborating with smart assistants and robots, viewing these technologies as standard components of their future jobs rather than niche tools.
Moreover, 32% of those surveyed predicted that email could vanish, with other collaborative methods taking its place in everyday work.
The study offered further insights into anticipated workplace trends. It reported that 38% of respondents expect virtual reality headsets in meetings, while 25% look forward to augmented reality meeting spaces. Expectations also included gaming zones at 38%, sleeping pods at 31%, and customizable temperature and lighting options at 28%.
These anticipations are closely tied to educational initiatives in Singapore, such as the EdTech Masterplan 2030 from the Ministry of Education, which aims to weave AI tools into teaching and learning frameworks. The AI Student Outreach Programmeme by AI Singapore also highlights certification and internship opportunities as a means to prepare students for the future job landscape.
Hybrid as Standard
The concept of hybrid work emerged prominently, with 81% of Generation Alpha believing it will become the standard approach by 2040.
A mere 17% expect to work exclusively from a primary office, with most envisioning a blend of home, local workplaces, and a central office.
The report described various benefits associated with moving away from a conventional office environment, including reduced commuting stress (51%), increased time with family and friends (50%), enhanced health and well-being (43%), and improved productivity (30%).
Linked to these preferences is a growing interest in a shorter workweek, with 33% of Generation Alpha predicting a four-day workweek becoming common by 2040.
The research compared these insights to present-day practices in Singapore, citing a Hays survey where 49% of respondents believed they would be more productive in a four-day work setting. Additionally, it noted that 80% of organizations offered flexible working options in 2025, with 30% planning to expand these arrangements.
Mark Dixon, Founder and CEO of IWG, commented on the findings, stating that the new generation has made it clear that flexibility in work arrangements is paramount. He noted,
“The next generation of workers have made their views clear; flexibility in where and how they work is not optional, but a must. The current generation have grown up seeing their parents waste time and money on long, daily commutes and technology today has effectively rendered them redundant.
Technology has always shaped the world of work and will continue to do so. 30 years ago, we saw the transformative impact of the widespread adoption of email, and today the advent of AI and robots is having an equally profound impact and will influence how and where Gen Alpha work tomorrow,” said Mark Dixon, Founder and CEO, IWG.
The research indicates that as Generation Alpha enters the workforce, employers and workspace providers can expect ongoing demands for hybrid work policies, reduced commuting times, and an increased implementation of automation and digital collaboration tools.
