Today, it is common for three or four generations to be working together in the workplace. Michael E. Parker provides some key components for businesses to understand when bridging the gap between generations.
2. currently in the workforce, sometimes with four or five
generations working alongside each other.
This can be a challenge for businesses since they need to integrate
younger workers with more seasoned employees. However, it is not
an impossible task to achieve.
There are multiple generations
3. Each generation grew up in different
worlds and value different things.
Baby Boomers place more value on
security and protecting their health
and wealth.
Millennials, on the other hand, grew
up just after the housing market
crash and focus more on financial
wealth than starting a family.
Understand the
generational
differences
4. Millennials take risks, require open
communication and feedback, and
value flexibility.
Baby Boomers and Gen Yers prefer to
work in team structures and
appreciate regular meetings.
As a business, recognizing these
differences will allow for a more
collaborative work environment.
This also
contributes to
different work style
preferences.
5. Each generation is committed to their careers in different ways. For the most part,
all ages enjoy the challenges that often come with jobs. However, some are more
flexible than others.
Veterans and baby boomers are more willing to adapt their personal lives around
their jobs. Gen Xers, Gen Yers, and Millennials strive for more work-life balance
and enjoy the flexibility of technology and use of their time.
Establish expectations
6. Diversity training can be a massive
benefit for bridging age gaps.
This is a great course to implement
for larger organizations to allow for
more involvement from larger
groups.
It is recommended these be kept
voluntary to avoid resistance and
hostility, but also to hold each
employee accountable for how they
treat each other.
Offer diversity
training
7. In a smaller workplace containing a multitude of generations, implementing a
mentorship program will allow for preconceived stereotypes to dissolve.
By having a mix of generations partner up, it will encourage each generation to
learn more about the other and teach them new perspectives.
Keeping this voluntary will foster a more positive relationship.
Implement a mentorship program