A Qualitative Descriptive Study of Millennial Motivational Profiles and Leadership Preferences

Existing research on leadership and motivation generally focuses on how leadership styles impact employee motivation with little consideration of how the employee’s characteristics can influence their preference in a leader. Motivational profiles comprising concepts of intrinsic and extrinsic factors and employee preferences towards transformational or transactional leadership styles were examined. Seventeen Millennials who have entered the workforce in the Western United States participated in a screening questionnaire and interview process designed answer research questions 1) How do Millennials in the Western United States describe their motivational profile once they have entered the workforce? and 2) How do Millennials who have entered the workforce in the Western United States describe their preferred leadership style? A thematic analysis revealed that intrinsic and extrinsic motivation are significant predictors of transformational and transactional leadership style preferences. Findings provide merit in both academic and organizational sectors. The findings contribute empirical evidence and practical value. Thus, these results can influence more informed leadership decisions to recruit, retain, and motivate Millennials in the workforce. Keywords: Leadership, Motivation, Millennials, Organizational Development, Human Resources.