Generational Value Differences (Essay Sample)

Generational Value Differences
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Institutional Affiliation
Generational Value Differences
Summary
The research question of the article focuses on whether the generational differences between frontline and service contact employees have an effect on their work values thereby influencing productivity. Gursoy, Chi and Karadag (2013) offer an insight into the hospitality management industry and the implications that generational values might have on a manager. However, if properly managed, generational value differences can be utilized by a manager to create better and enhanced workplace since inclusivity will be reflected in the mannerisms of employees. Significantly, varying values may end up presenting a challenge or impediment to efficient work environment through channels such as innovation and productivity if they are not well understood.
In particular, three generations are considered; baby boomers, generation x and millennials. Born between 1946 and 1964, baby boomers constitute 44% of the general working population, amounting to66 million workers(Gursoy, Chi, & Karadag, 2013). The name originates from the extra 17 million babies that were born in that era due to the healthy post-war environ. Similarly, generation X is defined as born from 1956 to 1980 and they account for 33% of the American workforce. Finally, millennials constitute workers born from 1980 to 2000 who have been vastly influenced by the digital age(Gursoy, Chi, & Karadag, 2013). These generations were adjudged according to specific work values which included; power, non-compliance, work centrality, work-life balance, leadership, technology challenge, power and recognition.
Research methodology was done using a hotel with over 50 branches located in North America. Focus groups were created with around 11 to 15 members from each generation where a cross-sectional and self-administered test containing 74 items was brought forth for examination(Gursoy, Chi, & Karadag, 2013). Since the hotel is a mid to upper class brand, the research study had to be structured around the working hours of the employees where the validity of the items created was evaluated. Subsequently, clarity, validity and readability defined the nature of items collected and combined with a questionnaire which accommodated Hispanic people by means of translation. Only 29 branches of the hotel were used and each was selected randomly whereby the researchers meted out approximately 1577 questions for their survey.
Baby boomers were found to be more consistent with work centrality when compared to the other generations. Moreover, millennials tended to challenge authority more and think out of the box, becoming synonymous with the non-compliance work value. Power however, was strived for by Generation X’ers to a greater capacity with a strong desire, closely following in the footsteps of their parents. With the exception of baby boomers, the other generations held a work-life balance value as integral to their working spirit whereas millennials had a closer dependability onleadership than the other two. Baby boomers are not comfortable with technology but as well, millennials detest being recognized as children in the work place.
Critique
Organization is expertly handled in the research paper with authors who are affiliated to a credible institution; Washington University. Moreover, these authors are working on other papers such as “A Handbook of Managing and Marketing Tourism Experiences” which contributes to their wealth of knowledge on the subject and their ability to ask appropriate questions. From the title and introduction, it is quite clear the intent and purpose of the paper. These aspects are further grounded by the methodology used, which is detailed in terms of numbers and nature of tools which are put in place. Furthermore, there is a logical consistency that translates into professionalism in the article.
Additionally, the hypothesis is reflected in the questions that are asked in the paper. A clear description is given of each generation, starting from baby boomers all the way to millennials which is an agreeable and verifiable fact. Clearly standing out, is the lack of research material in the field tha