EXPLORING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN GEN Z AND MILLENNIALS AT THE WORKPLACE ABOUT THE JOB SATISFACTION, WORK STRESS AND TURNOVER INTENTIONS

Understanding generational differences is essential as businesses try to manage the challenges of a diverse workforce. This study examines the differences in job satisfaction, work stress, and turnover intentions between Generation Z (born between the mid-1990s and early 2000s) and Millennials (born between the early 1980s and mid-1990s). Using a cross-sectional quantitative experimental approach, data from 100 randomly chosen employees, in a US-based company operating in North Macedonia are analysed. The results show no discernible difference in job satisfaction between the two generations. Contrary to Millennials, Gen Z workers report more work-related stress, which emphasizes the need to address the unique stressors faced by the more recent workers. The study also reveals slightly higher turnover intentions among Gen Z employees, highlighting the significance of targeted retention strategies catered to the particular goals of this generation. Although the study offers insightful information about generational dynamics at work, some drawbacks, including the sample size and self-report bias, should be acknowledged. Nevertheless, the findings offer a starting point for future research to address these limitations using larger and more diverse samples, multi-method approaches, and longitudinal studies. They also offer a foundation for understanding the distinctive characteristics of Gen Z and Millennials.