Organisational climate, person–organisation fit and turn over intention: a generational perspective within a South African Higher Education Institution

A ‘new’ workplace landscape in the higher education sector leads to employees questioning their fit within the current organisation. This paper presents the findings of an organisational climate study within a South African Higher Education Institution and highlights multi-generational perspectives. The theoretical contribution of this paper is a confirmation of the multi-level as well as the interactionistic nature of the macro (organisational climate), the meso (P–O fit) and micro (turnover intention) variables, as impacted on by the differences between the generational categories. Findings suggest that when thinking of leaving the employ of the university, Generation X considers the congruence between the demands of the job and compensation whereas Generation Y and Baby Boomers consider complementary fit and treatment by the direct manager as instrumental. The study is concluded with practical recommendations to reduce employees’ turnover intention to ensure a productive and effective workforce.