Generation Y’s Glance at the Connection between Leadership and Job Satisfaction

DOI: 10.5176/2251-2449_HRM&PD12.08

Authors: Susanna Kultalahti, Piia Edinger and Tiina Brandt

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to introduce generational aspect in leadership and well-being. Furthermore, it emphasizes the characteristics of Generation Y and concentrates on the challenges when leading Generation Y. Gen Y-ers represent increasing early retirement rates and sickness absences in Finland already in the beginning of their careers. This is alarming, especially when considering that they have decades of working life ahead of them, and the careers are needed to expand because of the massive retirements. Generation Y is said to challenge HR in the future, and the challenge has already started. Thus, it is essential for HR to recognize the special characteristics and reactions to them. Based on large survey data (N=7637), results revealed that Generation Y has differences with other generations in job satisfaction and in supervisor satisfaction. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Keywords: Well-being; Job satisfaction; Leadership; Generations; Generation Y