A Quantitative
Investigation on the Role of Allowed Workplace Flexibility for Employees' Perceived
Psychological Security - a focus on the Intersection between Generation Y and Z
Busse Ronald and Strelec Jure
Advances In Management; Vol. 16(3); 6-29;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/1603aim06029; (2023)
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to workplace flexibility and its potential
impact on employee psychological safety, particularly among Generations Y and Z
in Germany. This study combines primary and secondary research, including a survey
of 320 respondents experienced in flexible work. Surprisingly, no clear positive
or negative correlation between New Work models and psychological safety was found,
challenging common thinking. Four key recommendations emerge as a result: 1. Investigate
specific respondent groups, 2. Focus on certain employee categories (e.g., roles
or industries), 3. Solicit feedback from employees and 4. Provide training and education
for affected employees.
However, gender and education imbalances in the respondent pool hinder generalizability.
Therefore, future research should target more specific groups like management students
or those in digital professions. In conclusion, this study adds to the discourse
on workplace flexibility and its impact on psychological safety. It underscores
the necessity for targeted research to comprehend its effects on diverse employee
segments.
