University of Twente Student Theses

“Are young and motivated employees positive exceptions of the new working generation?” : An exploratory dyadic study into the mutual perceptions of Generation Y and Generation X on generational differences at work.

Heijden, B. van der (2023) “Are young and motivated employees positive exceptions of the new working generation?” : An exploratory dyadic study into the mutual perceptions of Generation Y and Generation X on generational differences at work.

PDF
644kB

Abstract:	Purpose – Many articles state how different the new generation is compared to the current workforce. Even consultancy agents start advising organizations in managing different generations at work. But is it true that generations are that different at work and how do employees experience this themselves? This study will focus on the mutual perceptions of Generation Y and Generation X employees on generational differences in the workplace. Method – A qualitative dyadic study is used to explore employees’ perceptions of each other. Six dyads inside six different organizations in the east of the Netherlands were researched. Each dyad consisted of direct colleagues, one from Generation Y and one from Generation X, interviewed individually using a semi-structured interview guide. The self-determination theory is used to explore whether the basic psychological needs – autonomy, competence and relatedness – are changing for the new generation. Due to this dyadic approach, mutual perspectives from both generations could be compared. In addition, the perceptions about one direct colleague from a different generation were compared with the perceptions of the other generation in general. Findings – In contrast to existing literature, there were no major differences noticed between the work values of Generation Y and Generation X. Particularly the perceptions of the basic needs, showed that the basic needs were quite similar between the dyads. The differences that were mentioned, sometimes even turned out to be in contrast to existing theories on generational differences at work. In addition, participants attribute these differences to a different life stage, work experience or the character of the other person and not to a generation. Especially in relation to the concepts of work meaning and work life, the general image of Generation Y turned out to be negative while the direct experiences inside the dyads are positive. Most of the older participants see their younger colleague as a positive exception of the new working generation. Despite there were no generational differences mentioned in the work values, the findings demonstrate the addition of two new themes in relation to generational differences at work. Especially participants from Generation Y stated that their generation is more open, better in self-reflection, receiving feedback and showing emotions. The other theme is about the fact that Generation Y (can) make more conscious choices in their life and career. Conclusion – Considering the results of this research it could be discussed whether there is a correct image of Generation Y’s needs with regard to the labour market. Companies must be critical in assessing popular articles and be careful in thinking in terms of generations. The advice of consultancy agencies may be based on incorrect results and principles, as proved in this study.
Item Type:	Essay (Master)
Faculty:	BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:	05 communication studies
Programme:	Communication Studies MSc (60713)
Link to this item:	https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/97402
Export this item as:	BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager

Show download statistics for this publication

Repository Staff Only: item control page