Generational challenge at work: Part I

Every generation has felt that they were unique in some way from their parents’ generation. “In our day, we did things differently” has been voiced by every generation. The challenge today however, is that these generational differences in the workplace can create negative outcomes including confusion, resentment, anger and turnover if they are not identified and addressed.

Listed below are some specific suggestions to consider, when trying to create a positive workplace environment.

• First, allow LOTS of flexibility for all generations. Keep in mind that the flexibility needs for each generation are also very different and the initiatives you put in place depends on the group you are dealing with. What may be useful to keep in mind is that each group is asking for work-life balance; they just define that differently!

• In addition, keep in mind to train, train, train but tailor to the cohort! Surveys indicate that all generations value training in the workplace. Veterans (age 65 +) and Boomers (age 46 – 64) want to be viewed as keeping up with what is going on. They do not want to be viewed as dinosaurs, so it is in their interest to participate in training to keep current.  GenX (age 34 – 45) and GenY (age 13 – 33) want and demand training because they know that training will keep them up to date, marketable and engaged in company activities.

• Besides, keep your technology cutting edge in order to appeal to GenX and GenY employees.  All of these groups want to use and incorporate new technologies. They do not want to discover that your technology is a couple of generations older than the technology they used and trained on at school!

• Feedback is also important for every generation, but especially for GenY. This generation has grown up with their parents and schools giving them constant positive reinforcement and they need it from their workplace too. Don’t wait for the six-month review to give them feedback or you will find they are not there.

To get further input on how to improve the generational conflicts at work take a look at “Generational challenges at the workplace” written by Susan Quinn.

Download the free eBook Generational challenges at the workplace right here