Work Motivators: Comparing Gen-Xers and Millennials in the IT Sector

Abstract

This article provides an insight into the generational differences in work motivators among Gen-X and Millennial IT employees. It also considers the gender differences in each generation as to how they perceive different work motivators. The researcher uses a sequential explanatory-mixed method approach to study the research questions. The study’s findings reflect that the motivational factors significantly motivate Gen-X, while the hygiene factors influence Millennials. The gender-based analysis shows that the motivational aspects of work-itself, company policy and work environment are significantly different between males and females. Gen-X males value the status factor of the job than females, while Gen-X females value company policy and work environment factors than male counterparts. Motivation significantly differs for Millennials’ job security, achievement and interpersonal relations. Millennial females value job security more than males, and Millennial males value achievement and interpersonal relationships than their female counterparts.