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Why young workers are putting flexibility ahead of salary

Published : Wednesday, 19 August, 2026 at 6:01 PM

Observer Online Report

Collected Photo

For many young jobseekers, salary is no longer the only factor when choosing a career. Flexible working hours, work-life balance, opportunities to develop new skills and the option to work remotely are increasingly influencing career decisions. A recent Deloitte survey found that Gen Z and millennials are prioritising stability, skills and well-being rather than focusing solely on rapid career progression.

The trend is also visible in Bangladesh, particularly in digital and flexible forms of employment. A study by the National Skills Development Authority found that 88.1% of Bangladeshi IT freelancers surveyed identified flexibility in working hours as a primary attraction of freelancing. Graphic design, software and web development and digital marketing were among the most common areas of work.

Content writing, social media management, online tutoring, graphic design and IT-related work can offer young people greater flexibility than conventional full-time jobs. Recent reporting in Bangladesh has also highlighted the growing popularity of part-time work among students, with some combining employment with their studies.

The government has also expanded training opportunities in digital skills. In July, the Department of Youth Development launched another three-month nationwide freelancing training programme across all 64 districts, aimed at providing educated jobseekers with market-oriented skills and expanding employment opportunities.

For many young people, the attraction of such work goes beyond immediate earnings. Flexible arrangements can allow them to continue their studies, develop technical and creative skills and pursue additional professional interests alongside employment. Remote work has also opened opportunities to work with companies and clients outside Bangladesh, although competition and income instability remain significant challenges.

As a result, a lower starting salary does not necessarily mean a less attractive career for younger workers. For some, the ability to control their time, gain transferable skills and maintain a better balance between work and personal life can be worth more than a higher salary at the beginning of their careers.

-HIS

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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury

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