University of Twente Student Theses
Generational Differences in Employee Change Readiness : A Comparative Study
Weusthof, Myrthe (2025) Generational Differences in Employee Change Readiness : A Comparative Study.
|
PDF
3MB |
| Abstract: | Organizations must adapt to change for long-term success. Change readiness, or employees' willingness to embrace change, is influenced by various factors including generational characteristics. However, empirical research on this remains limited, and no study has examined four generations simultaneously. Existing findings on generational differences are also inconsistent. This study investigates how generational characteristics influence change readiness, focusing on the mediating role of generational values. A quantitative approach was applied using ANCOVA, regression, mediation analysis, and post-hoc tests. Data were collected through an online survey measuring generational values, change readiness, change history, openness to change, and openness to experience. Significant generational differences in change readiness were found (p < 0.05). Baby Boomers showed the lowest levels, followed by Generation X, while Millennials and Gen Z exhibited the highest level of change readiness. Openness to change mediates this relationship (p < 0.05), suggesting it explains generational differences in change readiness. However, generational values do not mediate this effect (p > 0.05). Change readiness varies across generations, primarily due to differences in openness to change. Organizations should recognize these generational patterns and adjust change strategies accordingly. Understanding how openness to change shapes generational change readiness can help develop more targeted change management approaches. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/105259 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
Show download statistics for this publication
Show download statistics for this publicationRepository Staff Only: item control page