Study reveals diversified strain levels among generations regarding job schedules and overnight duties
In a groundbreaking study, Planday, a shift scheduling software platform by Xero, has unveiled data revealing significant generational differences in the UK hospitality industry. The research offers insights into the unique challenges and preferences of different generational cohorts, particularly regarding shift work management and employee engagement.
The research underscores the need for hospitality employers to consider generational differences in motivation and work preferences. Key generational differences primarily revolve around scheduling predictability, overtime demands, work/life balance, and career development expectations.
Gen Z employees face the greatest challenges with shift work unpredictability and last-minute overtime. About 73% report their shifts change with little or no notice, compared to 51% of Gen X. Additionally, 37% of Gen Z often work overtime, with 76% saying overtime comes without much prior notice. This group is most affected by unpredictable scheduling pressures.
Millennials, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of predictable and consistent schedules more than other groups, with nearly 49% stating it is very important to them. Despite this, only 48% of Millennials feel they have a good work/life balance—lower than both Gen Z (56%) and Gen X (61%)—likely reflecting their higher dissatisfaction or stress despite their preference for stability.
Gen X experiences comparatively more stable scheduling and less frequent overtime, with only 27% frequently working overtime and experiencing less shift unpredictability. They also report the best work/life balance among the three generations.
Across generations, flexibility and work/life balance are crucial, particularly for younger workers. Studies show that models like the four-day workweek (offering 100% pay for 80% time) have significantly reduced turnover and burnout in UK hospitality, aligning well with the preferences of these generations, especially younger ones.
Beyond scheduling, younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials) have evolving expectations for personal growth and learning in hospitality roles. They view careers as webs of ongoing learning and seek soft skills development, with many upskilling outside work hours. Employers are urged to adapt training strategies to meet these expectations to maintain engagement and reduce turnover.
Addressing these generational differences requires tailored managerial approaches that improve scheduling transparency and flexibility for Gen Z, provide the predictability Millennials want, and sustain the balance Gen X appreciates. Incorporating flexible work models like a four-day workweek also appears promising to reduce burnout and improve retention across all generations.
Dave Lee, Planday CEO, stresses the importance of being attuned to employees' needs and using the right tools to provide recognition and predictability. He suggests that meeting employees' needs and using the right tools can help hospitality owners and managers navigate challenges such as rising costs and staff shortages. Small adjustments to shift planning and feedback, he adds, can significantly improve employee retention, reduce stress, and build a more resilient team.
The findings suggest that technology can play a crucial role in improving the work experience for Gen Z and Millennial employees. An overwhelming 90% of Gen Z and Millennials agree that technology could improve their work experience, in contrast to 78% of Gen X.
In conclusion, understanding and addressing generational differences in the UK hospitality industry is key to improving work experiences, retaining talent, and fostering a more resilient workforce. By tailoring their approaches to different generations, managers and owners can alleviate shift work pressures, meet the evolving needs of their employees, and create a more productive and satisfied workforce.
- Recognizing the unique needs of different generations in the UK hospitality industry is vital for improving work experiences and retaining talent.
- Technology can play a significant role in enhancing the work experience for Gen Z and Millennial employees, with 90% expressing agreement on this matter.
- To foster a more resilient workforce, hospitality employers should tailor their approaches to different generations, providing solutions like scheduling transparency and flexibility for Gen Z, predictable schedules for Millennials, and ensuring a balance for Gen X.
- Adopting flexible work models, such as the four-day workweek, could reduce burnout and improve retention across all generations, aligning with the preferences of the younger ones.
