Y and Z Generation Career Motivation in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The objective of the article was to reveal the career motivation of generations Y and Z in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The notion of career motivation can be defined as the elements of an individual's needs, interests and personality traits that reflect career-related behaviour and includes three elements: career identity, insight and resilience. This analysis revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic had a strong impact on the career motivation of all employees. The Y and Z generations, which are the most active in the labour market and have the highest career expectations and plans, have been hit hardest. Looking at career motivation from the perspective of different generations, Generation Y appreciates the time allotted to them by organizational leaders when discussing their career opportunities, the most. Generation Z is characterized by exceptional technological talent and digital maturity; therefore, it hopes to work in a modern organization. The study revealed the differences between the Y and Z generations. Generation Y is more involved in their work, knows their goals, analyses their strengths, adapts more easily to new conditions, but this generation has more fears about their future, and has become much more cautious and more secure in their workplace. Generation Z is more inclined to perform properly and efficiently the tasks assigned to them, for them it is important to combine work with leisure time and flexible work schedule is a priority. (c) 2022 Brigita Stanikuniene, Diana Lipinskiene, Agne Kevelaityte, Doga Basar Sariipek.