The new generation of employees have a very specific list of essentials they expect from their bosses, many of which would have seemed completely out of reach even two years ago.

They include personal development plans and flexible hours, so they can strive for a better work-life balance.

Alok Alstrom, founder of the Future of Work Institute by AppJobs, said: “The way we work is always changing and young people today have different expectations of the workplace.

“Organisations need to keep up with the times and prioritise maintaining a positive employee experience, or they will struggle to keep their workforce engaged.

“Recruitment is a lengthy and costly process for any business, and keeping employees happy is crucial for retention.”

The post-pandemic workplace is very different from what it was at the start of 2020, with more employees now benefiting from remote working and changeable hours.

Flexibility is a key factor job seekers are looking for when comparing potential employers.

Mr Alstrom said: “Young people entering the world of work have a range of industries to look at, and a range of employers within those industries.

“And because many jobs are now available to be done remotely, they are not always restricted by geography in their hunt for opportunities.

“They’re more likely to opt for an organisation that allows flexibility around hours, instead of somewhere that’s strictly 9-5.

“An employee might want to start earlier than 9am so they can finish early and see more of their family. Or they may want to start later so they can go to an appointment before work.”

Next on the list of must-haves is a strong team morale. Co-workers don’t have to be best friends, but young people envisage a workplace that is more hospitable than hostile.

“Many employers think that all younger workers want free beers on a Friday, but it’s not true,” said Mr Alstrom.

“What they actually want is the chance to chat to their co-workers, build relationships so that working together is more seamless.

“This doesn’t mean that employees need to do trust exercises or workshops everyday, but encouraging a kind and supportive environment can go a long way to building a stronger team.

“They are also more ‘mission driven’ – they want to feel the company they work for is somehow making the world a better place.”

According to Mr Alstrom, future workforces will also seek opportunities to volunteer as part of their working life.

He added: “This could be the company organising volunteering opportunities for all employees to get involved in, or giving employees dedicated leave which they can take to undertake volunteering roles.

“Giving back gives people a boost, so any employer recognising this and promoting it will definitely have a happier workforce.”

Employees also want an employer who cares about their personal and professional development, so organisations need to be prepared to offer more training and support.

Mr Alstrom said: “Personal and professional development is high up on employees’ radars and this is bound to get even more important. Companies need to create an environment where people can learn and feel valued.”