More than half of teenagers say that having a career with a purpose, where they can really “make a difference”, is a bigger motivator for them than a high salary.
The top careers that those aged 13-19 would like to pursue are in medicine, social work, and green industries, according to a poll of 700 youngsters – despite two in five (42%) recognising they could make more money elsewhere.
It seems that money is not the biggest driver for teens – with over half (52%) more concerned with ensuring their chosen career is “futureproof”, such as healthcare, software development, and renewable energy.
And 49% would like a job that involves sustainability and looking after the planet, such as working with electric vehicles or heat pumps.
Meanwhile, 48% admire people who have the skills to do a job that helps others live more sustainably.
Liam Fairhurst, an apprentice at British Gas, which commissioned the research, said: “It’s fascinating to learn that money isn't always the main motivator for today’s generation of teenagers – and I can honestly say I get so much more out of my job than that.
“We get to work with cutting-edge renewable technology that’s going to make a real difference to the way people live their lives – and which will make an important contribution to our national net zero targets.”
The study also found 47% of those polled said their friends share their views on the importance of making a difference with their career.
But 48% think people their age are too money-focused when it comes to choosing a line of work.
The average teen said they’ve known which career path they want to go down for the last three years – with family being the biggest influencer (49%).
The OnePoll research also revealed 38% of teenagers believe their attitudes towards everyday life translates to their career choice.
Nearly a quarter (23%) plan to explore apprenticeship opportunities to achieve their goals, rather than going to university – citing cost (71%), getting hands-on experience (47%), and having a guaranteed job (42%) as the top reasons.
It also emerged half of teens think their generation is more aware of important issues facing society than those who have gone before them.
And 45% think their age group will be the ones to make change happen in the workplace.
Liam Fairhurst added: “Even after my time in the army, it’s been such great experience so far as a British Gas apprentice.
“Making a key impact on our customers households and the way they use their energy has allowed me to grow in confidence and progress my career.
“We also do a lot of work to help people live smarter, and find ways to be more energy efficient.
“Going into their homes and showing them how they can save money every day is so important at the moment.”
TOP 10 CAREERS TEENAGERS WOULD MOST LIKE TO PURSUE...
- Medicine
- Environmental conservation
- Teaching
- Social work
- Politics
- Writing
- Law
- Government and civil service
- Music
- Animal care
