Non-Linear Careers
What Gen Z’s “Lily Pad” Approach Means for UK Businesses
For generations, career success was measured by climbing a well-defined corporate ladder. Promotions, titles and seniority marked progress. But today’s workforce is evolving - and nowhere is this shift more evident than among Gen Z.
A recent Glassdoor report highlights that young professionals are moving away from traditional linear career paths in favor of “lily pad” careers - hopping between roles that suit their current personal and professional goals. While some critics may view this as unfocused, experts argue it’s strategic, sustainable and better aligned with today’s workplace realities.
Morgan Sanner, Glassdoor’s Gen Z career expert, explains:
"We’ve traded the rigid career ladder for the career lily pad - a path where we can jump to whatever opportunity fits best at the moment. In the long run, that kind of flexibility is more sustainable, more realistic and better suited to today’s workplace realities."
Key Insights from the Lily Pad Career Trend
Pay and prestige still matter - but leadership isn’t the prize.
Glassdoor’s survey of over 1,000 professionals in the US shows that 68% of Gen Z workers would only consider management roles if there’s higher pay or prestige attached. Unlike previous generations, the title alone is no longer a primary motivator.Values-driven leadership emerges.
Gen Z managers emphasize flexibility, collaboration and work-life balance rather than hierarchical control. Data shows younger employees are more likely to take time off in summer and value flexible hours for their teams.Security and resilience guide choices.
Economic turbulence, layoffs and technological disruption (particularly AI) are shaping career decisions. Many Gen Z workers are gravitating toward sectors perceived as more stable, including healthcare, education, government and skilled trades.
What Does This Mean for UK Businesses?
The lily pad approach signals a shift in expectations that UK employers cannot ignore:
Talent Retention is about Flexibility: Traditional promotion ladders are losing appeal. Employers need to offer growth through lateral moves, project-based roles and skill-building opportunities rather than waiting for formal management positions.
Wellbeing and Support Matter More Than Ever: As younger employees prioritize work-life balance and job security, investing in employee support systems - coaching, mentoring and wellbeing programs - becomes a competitive advantage.
Redefining Leadership: Leadership development now requires fostering collaboration, empathy and adaptability. Gen Z leaders value enabling their teams rather than commanding them.
How MOCO Coaching Can Help
At MOCO Coaching, we specialise in helping businesses adapt to changing workforce dynamics:
Supporting Non-Linear Career Paths: Through 1:1 coaching and career transition workshops, we help employees explore lateral moves, project-based roles or portfolio careers while remaining engaged and productive.
Building Resilient, Flexible Teams: Our training for managers and HR teams equips them to embrace non-linear growth, foster collaboration and support wellbeing.
Creating a Culture of Growth and Retention: Coaching and culture programs ensure employees feel valued, confident and prepared for the changing demands of work.
The rise of lily pad careers is not a threat - it’s an opportunity. UK businesses that embrace flexibility, invest in support and rethink progression will not only retain talent but empower employees to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
The workplace is changing - are you ready?
At MOCO Coaching, we help organisations turn career transitions into moments of growth and engagement. Let’s work together to support your people in navigating this new era of non-linear careers.