Generational Mix and Employee Work Behaviour in Nigerian Banking: An Empirical Inquiry

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of generational diversity on employees' work behaviour in selected commercial banks in Abeokuta, Nigeria. A descriptive research design was adopted, with structured questionnaires used to gather information from 162 employees across six banks. Three primary research objectives were addressed: exploring the influence of generational diversity on work behaviour; investigating the role of employee motivation on work behaviour across different generational cohorts; and examining the role of communication styles in work behaviour amongst multi-generational workers. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the strongest positive influences on work behaviour were exerted by employee motivation (β = 0.43, p < 0.001), communication styles (β = 0.38, p < 0.001), and perception of leadership (β = 0.34, p < 0.001). However, generational diversity did not have a statistically significant direct impact on work behaviour (β = 0.07, p = 0.245). The study concludes that whilst generational variation exists in Nigerian banks, the influence of generational diversity on employee behaviour is moderated by adequate motivation mechanisms and effective communication systems. These findings contribute to understanding human resource dynamics in emerging economies and offer practical implications for human resource management in multi-generational banking contexts.

Generational diversity, employee work behaviour, banking sector, Nigeria, motivation, communication styles

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