Purpose
This paper aims to develop a better understanding of intergenerational knowledge transfer (IKT) practices by adopting a context-related and comparative perspective.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative case study design involving 83 interviews and non-participative observation in German and Quebec organizations has been chosen.
Findings
Two distinctive archetypes of IKT emerge from both national contexts: “we-individualizing” (Germany) and “I-connecting” (Quebec), leading to an eightfold taxonomy of IKT practices.
Research limitations/implications
This research is limited to young and senior workers and to high-tech sectors.
Originality/value
Comparative and inductive study of IKT, adaptation of IKT practices to national contexts, retaining younger workers. This inductive and comparative study allows a better adaptation of IKT practices to national contexts and therefore a better retention of younger workers.
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