The Maltese millennials at work : a sociological enquiry

Abstract

Talent Management departments are facing a problem with regards to retaining their young employees and therefore it is of vital importance for them to understand the millennials’ work ethic and what they value at the place of work. Today’s generation should be given importance since they are taking over previous generations’ jobs, and therefore they are today’s leaders and influencers (Zahra, 2019).

This research is a quantitative study that evaluates the millennial generation’s work ethic and what are their priorities at the work. Focusing mainly on the hypothesis of the common traits of Maltese youths; whether or not they value job stability and also whether they prefer financial or non-financial rewards. Primary data was generated through a questionnaire that was distributed to a number of Maltese youths, aged between thirty-nine and twenty-four. A total of 126 responses have been evaluated using the SPSS program so as to outline their work perspective.

Results showed that Maltese youths actually value job stability and are unlikely to quit their job without giving a chance or offering some assistance. The employees also tend to work hard by spending extra time at work or replying to emails when matters arise at work. Alternatively, although they do work hard, they do not believe that it is a factor that would help them improve their career. Factors such as skills and qualifications are highly rated by the youths, especially since the millennial generation value education and technological opportunities.

Hardly any studies were conducted on Maltese youths, and therefore there is room for further studies and understanding of such a generation. Further research would lead to a better understanding of such youths that would help current employers to truly understand what they want from their place of work. The final part of the study has included a number of recommendations and further research.