Study Finds Generation X Reports Lowest Levels of Job Satisfaction
A survey of over 1,000 workers by KickResume reveals that Gen X is more dissatisfied with their careers than younger generations, with a majority of employees regularly faking enthusiasm at work.
New research conducted by resume-building firm KickResume indicates that workplace dissatisfaction is widespread, yet disproportionately concentrated among older cohorts. Contrary to common tropes suggesting the youngest workforce is the most disengaged, the survey found that 34 percent of Gen X respondents—those aged 46 to 61—expressed active dislike for their jobs, compared to 26 percent of millennials and 22 percent of Gen Z.
Beyond simple satisfaction levels, the data highlights a culture of performative engagement. Approximately 37 percent of respondents fall into a category of workers who act enthusiastic to maintain professional appearances despite harboring significant dread. In total, 86 percent of those surveyed admitted to feigning more enthusiasm than they felt at least once during the previous week.
While workers continue to search for better opportunities or feel stuck in their current roles, only 13 percent identified as genuinely happy. The findings suggest that for many, workplace dissatisfaction is managed through a facade, with few employees feeling comfortable enough to show their true sentiments in a professional setting.