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An exploration of job motivation among the different generations in Ireland’s tertiary economic sector

Bradley, Susan (2021) An exploration of job motivation among the different generations in Ireland’s tertiary economic sector. Masters thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

This research aims to explore the different generations in Ireland's tertiary industry, and the influencing factors behind their job motivation. Because of Generation Z only recently entering the workplace, there is limited research on how this generation may differ from their senior counterparts, especially in terms of Irish studies. With COVID-19 forcing many employees to work from home and reevaluate what is important to them, the topic of what motivates them to work may or may not be different depending on what generation they are from.

This study uses a qualitative indictive approach by conducting semi-structured interviews with eight individuals from the different generations in Irelands tertiary (service) sector. The researcher took this flexible approach in order for opinions and conversation to flow naturally, while sticking loosely to a set of question developed from the literature review. Through thematic analysis, interview data was analysed and represented in a number of key themes including work- life balance, financial reward, diversity and travel.

Once themes were identified, the researcher then presented the findings in which the generations job motivation was comparable or contrasting. This led to the discussion section which looked at the findings on a more philosophical level, explaining the understanding behind certain ideas and topics. Recommendations were then made based on the findings, for HR practitioners to implement in organisations with different generations in the workforce. Timescales and costings were also outlined to give a practical solution for future implementation.

Although there were limitations of the study, including sample size and accessibility issues relating to COVID-19, this study does provide a guide for further research on the intergenerational workforce's job motivation in Irelands tertiary industry.

Item Type: Thesis (Masters)
Subjects: D History General and Old World > DA Great Britain > Ireland
H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management > Human Resource Management > Performance Management > Motivation
H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > Specific Industries > Service Industry
Divisions: School of Business > Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
Depositing User: Clara Chan
Date Deposited: 15 Dec 2021 15:32
Last Modified: 15 Dec 2021 15:32
URI: https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/5241

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