Actual Versus Perceived Generational Differences at Work: An Empirical Examination

被引:73
作者
Lester, Scott W. [1 ]
Standifer, Rhetta L. [2 ]
Schultz, Nicole J. [3 ]
Windsor, James M. [2 ]
机构
[1] Univ Wisconsin, Ctr Leadership, Eau Claire, WI 54702 USA
[2] Univ Wisconsin, Eau Claire, WI 54702 USA
[3] Univ Wisconsin, Dept Commun & Journalism, Eau Claire, WI 54702 USA
关键词
generational diversity; multigenerational workforce; workplace preferences; VALUES; STEREOTYPES;
D O I
10.1177/1548051812442747
中图分类号
C93 [管理学];
学科分类号
12 ; 1201 ; 1202 ; 120202 ;
摘要
As the amount of generational diversity increases among today's workforce, a common topic of conversation is how to handle differences between generational cohorts. But to what extent do generations believe they are different and to what extent are generations actually different? This study examines this question. Using generational cohort theory as a theoretical underpinning, this study considers 15 work-related concepts and the degree to which workers personally value them. Subjects also provide their perceptions of how much they believe Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y value these items. Results reveal the differences subjects perceive among the generations significantly outnumber the actual value differences individuals reported. The authors discuss both actual and perceptual differences in detail and theorize why the nature of these actual differences may lead to generational misconceptions. By doing so, this study provides a meaningful contribution to the discussion of generational diversity and its impact on the workplace.
引用
收藏
页码:341 / 354
页数:14
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