Employee motivation factors across generational cohorts X, Y and Z in the IT industry in Poland

Purpose: This paper explores the drivers for employee motivation in the IT sector in Poland. Specifically, it focuses on differences in what motivates employees belonging to generations X, Y and Z. Design/methodology/approach: This study, rooted in existing international literature around the topic of employee motivation, draws on 16 semi-structured interviews performed in May and June 2023 with senior managers and human resources representatives working in IT sector in Poland. The data was analysed using MAXQDA software. Findings: The findings of the qualitative section of this study are conformant with previous research from other sectors that the major motivation factors are finance and growth possibilities, when it comes to IT sector in Poland. However, it stresses that for the finance induced motivation boost to last it needs to be combined with growth. Also, generational differences between motivation factors were identified. The findings indicate to managers that motivation factors such as finance should not be treated in separation, but they should be accompanied by an adequate increase in responsibility and that for various generations different forms of employment could facilitate the motivating process. Research limitations/implications: The conclusions were formulated taking into account the sample’s limitations. The qualitative study was limited to the group of 16 respondents who despite having experience from multiple companies, at the time of the interviews worked for the same company: Atos Group. Therefore, this research can encourage further reflection on employee motivation in the IT sector. Originality/value: The systematic literature review indicated that the subject of employee motivation factors had not been undertaken in the context of Polish IT sector specificity.