GENERATIONAL DIFFERENCES IN WORK PREFERENCES IN THE CONTEXT OF THE LABOR MARKET: SLOVAKIAN CASE

Abstract

The study examines the differences in the work preferences of generations X, Y and Z. Its main goal is to identify the preferences of individual generations in the context of integration into the labor market, based on a questionnaire. To achieve the stated goal, we conducted a questionnaire, the results were verified through a chi-squared test, and last but not least, a comparison between all generations mentioned was also performed. The results indicate that significant differences can be observed among the examined generations in aspects such as the use of digital media in the form of social media for job searching, flexible forms of employment, career development, diversity in the workplace, and also loyalty to the employer. Simultaneously, it was found that generation Z has taken a dominant position in all the areas examined. They are the ones who use social media to the greatest extent for the above-mentioned purposes, among all generations they have the highest preference for flexible forms of employment, the area of career development is also the most important for them, they value diversity in the workplace compared to older generations much more, but they are also the least loyal employees among the generations in question. We see improvements in making working conditions more attractive depending on the generations. A universal policy of motivation or benefits is not sufficient, and a proactive approach by employers in the form of a more personalized approach is needed. Such an approach can have an impact on higher satisfaction and also employee loyalty.