Generational predictors of job satisfaction in the context of flexible work arrangements

The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the predictors of job satisfaction in the context of flexible working conditions across Generations X, Y, and Z. The research questions focused on identifying significant factors influencing satisfaction and examining generational differences in their perception. The quantitative research was conducted through an online questionnaire among respondents in Slovakia, with the data analyzed using correlation and multiple regression analysis. The results showed that all the observed generations exhibit statistically significant predictors of job satisfaction, although their structure differs. In Generation X, the most important roles were played by work-life balance and mental health; in Generation Y, motivation and engagement dominated; and Generation Z was influenced by a combination of motivation, psychological well-being, and private life. An important finding was that the variable ‘motivation and engagement’ had a significant effect across all generations, while the other factors displayed generational specificity. In conclusion, it can be stated that flexible working conditions represent an important tool for supporting employee satisfaction, the effectiveness of which depends on adaptation to the specific needs of individual age cohorts. The research also provides recommendations for the creation of individualized HR strategies reflecting the value-based and lifestyle preferences of different generations of workers.