Gen Z Most Confident in Asking for Pay Rise, Gen X Tends to Accept Their Fate

Generation Z (Gen Z) workers are the most courageous group when it comes to discussing salary increases, according to a recent survey. Data from the JobStreet by SEEK Salary Pulse 2026 report shows that 60% of Gen Z employees initiate pay rise conversations with their superiors or human resources departments, compared to 55% of Millennials and only 37% of Gen X. Managing Director of JobStreet by SEEK Indonesia, Wisnu Dharmawan, noted that this boldness is a standout finding, contrasting sharply with Gen X, who tend to complain informally but lack the confidence to make direct requests. The survey indicates that only 41% of Gen X feel they are paid fairly, a lower proportion than both Gen Z and Millennials, who each recorded 49%. This is despite Gen X having relatively higher incomes, with 49% earning above Rp8 million monthly, exceeding the market average of 43%. Wisnu suggested that this disparity is influenced by Gen X’s perception of unfairness when comparing their responsibilities with less experienced colleagues, coupled with their discomfort in negotiating pay. Conversely, Gen Z, typically in early career stages, display greater confidence, with 60% comfortable asking for a rise. When offers fall short, 28% of Gen Z will renegotiate, and another 28% will request additional benefits. This assertiveness appears effective, as 72% of Gen Z received a pay increase in the past 12 months, well above the national worker average of 62%. The survey, conducted in February 2026 with 1,010 Indonesian workers aged 18 to 64, also found that despite lower average incomes, 65% of Gen Z are satisfied with their current salary.