More than three-fourths of U.S. millennial workers who quit their job do so because of minimal wage growth, according to a new study by Ernst & Young in New York City. Nearly 9,700 full-time workers in eight nations participated in the online survey.

“Knowing that millennials and parents are under increasing pressure, we wanted to understand what employees seek in a job and why they quit, why they stay and how this differs by generation,” said Karyn Twaronite, EY global diversity & inclusiveness officer.

The reasons why millennials quit vary from country to country. The top five reasons in the United States are:

Minimal wage growth (78%)

Lack of advancement opportunities (75%)
Excessive overtime hours (72%)
An environment that doesn't encourage teamwork (66%)
A boss who doesn't allow flexibility (66%)

An employee's family situation is another important factor. Parents are more likely than non-parents to mention a lack of opportunity to advance as a reason to quit, which shows continued career ambition after having children. Parents also are more likely to emphasize flexibility issues.

So what are millennials seeking in a job? The report found these priorities:

Competitive pay and benefits
Flexible hours, while still remaining on track for promotion
Working with supportive bosses and colleagues
Paid parental leave onsite or subsidized child care and telecommuting one or two days a week.

Special Reports /

Why millennials quit their jobs

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