Generational differences in family-run medium-sized hotels

Summary of this study

Different generations work together in the hotel industry. They have different values and different expectations of their employers. The aim of this study was to find out which attitudes differentiate generations X, Y and Z working in family-run, medium-sized hotels.

To collect the data, an online survey was conducted in which former and current employees from the Austrian hotel industry took part. A model with eight dimensions was tested, based on a systematic evaluation of the specialist literature.

The study results show clear differences between Generations X, Y and Z - particularly in terms of their work ethic and values, their career expectations, how attractive they find certain tasks and which practical and symbolic characteristics are important to them. As a practical conclusion, we have created employee profiles that represent the values and expectations of each generation in family-run mid-market hotels.

Findings from this study

The study shows clear generation-specific differences in the world of work.

• Generation X, for example, is less accepting of bureaucratic structures than the younger generations Y and Z. At the same time, they are more loyal to their employer - a result that contradicts the expectations of Generation Z's loyalty.
• In terms of work content, Generation X places particular value on challenging tasks and a meaningful connection to work. This contrasts with Generation Z, which values an affinity for technology and dynamic working environments above all.
• There are also differences in the social dimension: Generation Z prefers social and team-oriented activities much more than Generation Y. It is also apparent that Generation X is particularly receptive to sustainability-related measures from their employers - a factor that can influence their work motivation and employer loyalty.