Social Science
Determinants of Motivation to Work in Terms of Industry 4.0—The Gen Z Perspective
Bernard Bińczycki,
Wiesław Łukasiński,
Sławomir Dorocki
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
The mentality of Generation Z differs markedly from the approach to social and economic issues presented by earlier generations. These young people have had access to the internet and other innovative technologies since birth. A tape recorder or a floppy disk is a museum exhibit for them. They are unfamiliar with the everyday problems that citizens of Central and Eastern Europe faced during the socialist era, such as the lack of necessities on the shelves. The aim of this article is to present the results of the authors’ survey on the identification of work motivation factors relevant to Generation Z. The survey involved 649 respondents, young Poles who are currently entering the labor market. It was also an interesting research task for the authors to compare the results of surveys among young Poles with the results of international surveys. The research provided insight into young people’s expectations, values, and preferences regarding work. The results of the survey can provide valuable guidance for employers in shaping sustainable human resource management strategies. In addition, studying the competences of Generation Z can identify the gap between the requirements of the labor market and the skills possessed by young workers. The study conducted by the authors is among the first of its kind in Poland after the pandemic, emphasizing the growing trend in remote work. Earlier research was undertaken in a different economic climate. The current investigation took place following the COVID-19 outbreak and amidst heightened military operations in Ukraine. It also takes into account the effects of recent technological progress related to the rapid development of Industry 4.0. Notably, the questionnaire used in this study is unique as the authors categorized motivational factors into three essential groups, highly relevant in today’s markedly altered labor market.
Key Questions and Answers
1. What motivates Gen Z to work in an Industry 4.0 context?
Gen Z is motivated by the desire to work with cutting-edge technologies, flexible job roles, and opportunities for career growth in an innovative, digital-first environment.
2. How does Gen Z view automation and technology integration in the workplace?
Gen Z generally views automation positively, seeing it as a tool to enhance productivity and innovation in the workplace, not as a threat.
3. What are Gen Z's expectations regarding work-life balance and job flexibility?
Gen Z highly values work-life balance and flexible working arrangements, seeking environments that allow them to juggle personal and professional commitments effectively.
4. How does Gen Z's attitude towards technology and flexibility impact employer expectations?
Employers are increasingly expected to adapt to Gen Z's desire for flexible work conditions, such as remote work, and to incorporate advanced technologies in their operations to attract and retain top talent.
5. How can understanding Gen Z's motivations help organizations create an attractive workplace?
By understanding Gen Z’s emphasis on flexibility, innovation, and technology, organizations can create environments that promote engagement, creativity, and long-term loyalty.
