Engagement at Work: Does Generation and Culture Matter?

This study explored three psychological components of engagement suggested by Kahn (1990): Meaningfulness, Safety and Availability across two different nationalities (Czech and German) and three generations (Baby Boomers, Generation X and Net Generation). Results supported the model of engagement previously explored by May et al. (2004), indicating the three concepts having an influence on engagement. Furthermore, German participants scored higher on engagement than Czech participants and Baby Boomers were found to perceive their job as significantly more meaningful than the other two younger generations. No evidence for relationship was found between Career/ Parental Self-in-Role and engagement for men, whereas results show a positive link between Career Self-in-Role and engagement for women. A new connection between Career Self-in-Role and Availability was established based on the results, offering a new focus for further research.