Can We All Get Along? Creating a Generational Inclusive Workplace

It is common to find multiple generations in the workplace. Because everyone must work together as a team to ensure the company’s success, it is imperative that those of different generations get along, overcome their differences and recognize that each individual, no matter which generation they are from,

brings unique ideas and solutions to problems to the table. In order to create a smooth dynamic in the workplace when working with multiple generations, it is important to investigate these different generations and study their work ethic and work expectations.

Baby Boomers

BabyBoomerswerebornbetween1943and1964.Peoplefrom thisgroupareconsideredcompetitiveandexpecteveryoneinthe workplacetocontributetheirshareofwork.Understandingalittle aboutthisgenerationisimportantsinceBabyBoomersmakeupa significantportionoftoday‘sworkforceataround37percent.

People from the Baby Boomer generation have a strong work ethic. They are optimistic and independent. They have goals and are often team players. Because of their upbringing and historical events they witnessed as they were growing up, Baby Boomers thrive when they are shown appreciation. For them, recognition is a strong motivator. They are competitive and display a sense of loyalty to their employer.

Generation X

ThosereferredtoasGenerationXwerebornbetween1965and 1980.Thisgenerationprefershands–onworkanddoesn‘tliketo bemicromanaged.Thisgenerationsawalotof“latch–key“kids. Becauseofthis,peoplefromthisgenerationlearnedtobe independentandself–sufficient.Theyenjoytheirfreedomand don‘tnecessarilyconformtoastandard9-5workscheduleand theyhaveadislikeofauthority.GenXersareabletoquicklyadapt totheever–changingtechnologyandhavenotroublekeepingup.

They are ambitious and eager to learn new skills, but want to do this on their own terms.

Millennials

TheMillennialgenerationreferstothosebornbetween1980and 1995.Thisgenerationwasraisedbyparentswhogavethem structureandconstantencouragement.Asaresult,Millennials oftenhavehighself–esteem.Thisisalsoagenerationthattruly doesnotknowwhatitwasliketolivewithouttheinternetand advancedtechnologythatwehavetoday.Millennialsdon‘twant tobemanaged.Theywantaleaderwhowillguidethembecause theyliketomakedecisionsontheirowninsteadofhaving someonetellthemwhattodo.Theyenjoyworkingasateamand don‘twanttoblindlydoajob.Theywantfeedbackandtheywant anexplanationastowhyajobneedstobecompleted.

Conclusion

Each generation has unique qualities that they bring to the workplace. While it can get uncomfortable for Baby Boomers who may now be answering to a younger boss, it is not impossible to get along at work. Younger workers should seek out older workers with more experience so they can learn from that experience.

Employers can also focus on the how well an employee does a job, rather than focusing on how that job gets done. For example, some employees work better on their own schedule. Therefore, a manager could offer telecommute options or more flexibility in scheduling. The point is to have everyone work together as a team for the ultimate success of all involved.

Do you need to drive employee engagement among your employees? Understanding the different generations, their communication style, their work expectations and what motivates them is essential for building a generational inclusive culture.

Simplyhrinc.comprovides the HR expertise you need to drive your company’s culture through training.

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