The challenge of an intergenerational workplace

Some of us may take it for granted, but are you aware that for the first time in history at least four, if not six, generations can be represented within the same team in a workplace? And that is significant!

From baby-boomers to millennials, there are considerable differences in their values, behaviours, expectations and motivations, with which employers must deal on a day-to-day basis. Veterans, boomers, Generation Xs, Ys, Zs, and millennials (as well as “boomlets” born after 2001) do not always agree amongst themselves.

This generational proximity in any given work environment comes with many positives, but it also includes disruptive factors.

How can you, as a manager, connect persons from various age groups so that they function synergistically as a team?

Here are some tips drawn from literature on the subject, with the understanding that responsibility lies with the managers:

• Know how to collaborate harmoniously
• Balance the aspirations of all team members, regardless of their generation
• Engage the younger generations, who tend to change jobs on average every four years, so that they will choose to stay with your organization longer
• Patience and openness are key to developing harmonious relations among colleagues from different generations

All these are good guides. But in concrete terms, what are desired actions and behaviours for this multigenerational workforce that will best promote harmony, balance, engagement, patience and openness? In HR literature, some wishes are expressed and possible solutions offered. Rarely, if ever, are there tricks or recipes to address issues stemming from multigenerational challenges in the workplace.

I have a different approach in this landscape which has proven effective. Rather than focus on the differences between intergenerational team members, I prefer to highlight what they have in common. Rather than being distrustful or obstinate, it is important first to get to know each other better by taking into account the social indicators, collective characteristics and values of each generation. Knowledge and understanding are key, as is an appreciation of Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of the seven basic human needs. In short, it is better to focus on what brings us together than dwell on what separates us.

My one-day six-hour in-house workshop Intergenerational diversity in the workplace / Diversité intergénérationnelle en milieu de travail combines theory, role playing, exercises and case studies based on my practice, and is directed to fostering sympathy and understanding among team members that will drive them to work better together. In other words, colleagues will develop a camaraderie that should naturally inspire them to provide support to one another.

For more details on this workshop (in French or in English) and other services, contact me at: info@danielecyr.ca