Companies Prioritize 'Proactivity' in Young Employees: Survey Reveals Differences by Scale
According to a survey by Teikoku Databank, 'proactivity and initiative' is the top trait companies desire in young employees (68.4%). Large enterprises tend to value team results, while SMEs prioritize individual responsibility.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: May 21, 2026 at 23:46
- 🔍 Collected: May 21, 2026 at 15:31
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 21, 2026 at 15:35 (3 min after Collected)
## Survey Overview
Teikoku Databank has conducted a survey of companies regarding the attitudes and behaviors they hope young employees will develop. The survey was conducted online between May 8 and May 12, 2026, with 1,351 valid responses.
## Key Findings
When asked about desired attitudes, 'proactivity and initiative (the ability to think and act for oneself)' topped the list at 68.4%. This was followed by 'sense of responsibility' (34.4%), 'a willingness to continue learning' (25.2%), and 'the ability to perform duties independently' (21.0%).
On the other hand, items related to organizational collaboration and leadership, such as 'ability to engage those around them' (2.1%) and 'ability to provide OJT/mentoring to juniors' (3.4%), remained in the single digits.
## Characteristics by Company Scale
In large enterprises with subdivided organizational structures, 'ability to act while conscious of total team results' (24.7%) was relatively high. Conversely, in SMEs, where individuals often handle diverse tasks, items such as 'sense of responsibility' (36.1%) and 'ability to perform duties independently' (21.9%) stood out.
## Outlook
As it becomes increasingly difficult for companies to secure talent, the focus is shifting toward how to cultivate the proactivity and autonomy of young employees who will play key roles in the future.
Teikoku Databank has conducted a survey of companies regarding the attitudes and behaviors they hope young employees will develop. The survey was conducted online between May 8 and May 12, 2026, with 1,351 valid responses.
## Key Findings
When asked about desired attitudes, 'proactivity and initiative (the ability to think and act for oneself)' topped the list at 68.4%. This was followed by 'sense of responsibility' (34.4%), 'a willingness to continue learning' (25.2%), and 'the ability to perform duties independently' (21.0%).
On the other hand, items related to organizational collaboration and leadership, such as 'ability to engage those around them' (2.1%) and 'ability to provide OJT/mentoring to juniors' (3.4%), remained in the single digits.
## Characteristics by Company Scale
In large enterprises with subdivided organizational structures, 'ability to act while conscious of total team results' (24.7%) was relatively high. Conversely, in SMEs, where individuals often handle diverse tasks, items such as 'sense of responsibility' (36.1%) and 'ability to perform duties independently' (21.9%) stood out.
## Outlook
As it becomes increasingly difficult for companies to secure talent, the focus is shifting toward how to cultivate the proactivity and autonomy of young employees who will play key roles in the future.
FAQ
What do companies value most in young employees?
Proactivity and initiative are highly valued, with nearly 70% of companies citing them.
Does company size affect training focus?
Yes. Large firms focus on team output, while SMEs prioritize individual responsibility and immediate readiness.
Is leadership development a priority?
Currently, expectations for leadership and organization-wide influence in young employees remain relatively low.