The emergence of Generation Y workforce in Lebanon : motivation factors and the work environment

Abstract

By the year 2020, half of the workforce will consist of Generation Y employees (people born between the year 1980 and 1999). However, little knowledge is available about Generation Y professionals in the Middle East. This study examines the motivation factors of Generation Y residing in Lebanon. The Five Motivational Dimension model developed by Twenge et al. was used to evaluate the importance of work preferences. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used. A survey was conducted to analyze the work motivation factors of Generation Y, and interview data were gathered to understand the perspective of Generation Y in Lebanon. The results were compared with similar studies and it was clear that culture influenced motivation factors. In addition, Generation Y’s motivation factors were utilized to provide suggestions for the effective recruitment and retention of Generation Y professionals.