The Meaning of Work for Generation Y and Baby Boomer Individuals During the Pandemic: A Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Findings on generational differences and similarities are inconclusive and inconsistent. There is a need to conduct research that focuses on a deeper understanding of generations, that can help overcome stereotypes in the workplace. The uncertainty and disruption of the pandemic generated an opportunity to understand the lived experience of constructing and reconstructing meaning in relation to work. This article presents findings from a hermeneutic phenomenological study conducted to understand the meaning of work during the pandemic among seven participants, four Generation Y individuals and three Baby Boomers, and in what ways, if any, their meaning of work changed. Five essential themes were constructed: Understanding the Self, Purpose, Connection, Security, and Priorities. These findings provide some common experiences between the individuals in two generational cohorts that help us understand why people work and what they want to accomplish (Brief & Nord, 1990). This understanding can be used to build systems and structures in organizations that reflect individual and shared constructions of the meaning of work to motivate and empower employees and create team cohesion.