Generations and the Future of Work: case study exploration of Business Stakeholder perspectives on Zillennials in the Northern Irish workplace

Abstract

PurposeThis research aims to better understand the Zillennial Generation within the workplace, specifically using the perspectives of Business Stakeholders within the context of Northern Ireland. Understanding the perceptions of Zillennials in the workplace is important due to their growing numbers and subsequent impact on the future of work.Design/Methodology/ApproachA case study approach is used to gain a deeper understanding of stakeholder opinions and experiences of Zillennials. The authors draw on extant research and use semi-structured interviews to explore the experiences and views of stakeholders within three case firms employing Zillennials.FindingsThe study concludes that discrepancies can be seen between Zillennial performance and behaviour, compared with Business Stakeholder workplace expectations. Findings suggest that according to Business Stakeholders observations, Zillennials display some, but not all, attributes of Generation Z and Millennials. Business Stakeholders observations also reveal that Zillennials demonstrate some, but not all, entrepreneurial behaviours and competencies.Originality/ValueWhile many studies focus on both Generation Z and Millennials, research focused on unique cusp generations is limited. No research has been conducted that investigates the perception of Zillennials within the context of Northern Ireland.