Empowering Generation Z in manufacturing organizations: a 6-factor self-determination extension

Salvadorinho, Juliana, Hines, Peter, Kumar, Maneesh ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2469-1382, Ferreira, Carlos and Teixeira, Leonor 2024. Empowering Generation Z in manufacturing organizations: a 6-factor self-determination extension. Journal of Work-Applied Management 10.1108/JWAM-07-2024-0087

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Abstract

Purpose This article seeks to explore the key motivational factors driving Generation Z (Gen Z), within the context of the significant influence of the digital paradigm, employing the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) as a content motivational framework. Design/methodology/approach Utilizing an abductive methodology, the study combines deductive insights from a systematic literature review on Gen Z’s motivational predictors with inductive findings from a workshop involving six medium and large - scale global manufacturing companies. The synthesis of these results contributes to the creation of a matrix that highlights the relationship between motivational predictors and the psychological needs stemming from intrinsic motivation. Findings This paper suggests an extension of SDT tailored for Gen Z, identifying six motivational factors—autonomy, competence, relatedness, purpose, flow state, and achievement. Practical implications This research emphasizes the need for a modern leadership approach capable of effectively overseeing remote teams, fostering a balanced integration of personal and professional aspects, and nurturing individual purpose. This approach goes beyond fulfilling the basic needs of Maslow’s pyramid to focus on elevating the significance of work, training, and employee engagement to satisfy higher levels of self-actualization and transcendence. Originality/value The study delves into the motivations of Gen Z, a demographics that has received limited attention in the existing literature. The integration of the six factors with SDT reflects a synthesis tailored to the distinctive characteristics of Gen Z and aligns with the principles of the PERMA model within positive psychology.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	In Press
Schools:	Business (Including Economics)
Publisher:	Emerald
ISSN:	2205-2062
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	22 November 2024
Date of Acceptance:	29 October 2024
Last Modified:	25 Nov 2024 13:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/174247

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