Do your employees span a wide range of generations? At times, these generational gaps can cause conflicts and disagreements over different working styles, but with proper education, your employees can learn how to better understand each other and communicate more effectively. Let’s take a look at the best strategies for bridging generational gaps in your workplace.
What are Generational Gaps?
Generational gaps in the workplace are the differences in attitudes, values, and working styles between each generation. It is often a challenge for employers to bridge the gap between younger and older generations of the workforce and to ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals. In order to best understand how each generation behaves, it’s important for us to identify the eras and events that define each generation currently in the workforce.
What Defines Each Generation?
Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) are often considered to be the generation that shaped modern society, and are known for their work ethic, optimism, and respect for authority. They came of age in the post-war economic boom of the 50s and 60s, which defines much about their working style.
Many individuals in Generation X (born roughly 1965-1980) grew up with both parents working and had to take care of themselves after school. They are known for their independent spirit, entrepreneurial drive, and embrace of early technology, in addition to skepticism of institutions, experience with economic struggles, and creative problem-solving abilities.
Similar to the generation before them, Millennials (born 1981-1996) are known for their tech-savviness, creative problem-solving skills, and entrepreneurship. However, they are also considered more open to change than previous generations, and have a stronger focus on work-life balance and a penchant for convenience. They have made a more conscious effort to embrace diversity, with a commitment to social causes and an interest in experiences over material things.
Gen Z (born 1997-2012) is just starting out in the workforce, and they are the first generation to grow up with advanced technology, otherwise known as “digital natives.” Beyond being well-versed in technology, they are also known for being independent, extremely socially conscious, highly connected with others, and interested in taking risks such as starting their own businesses.
Reasons for Generational Gaps
1 . Changes in technology: Technology has changed dramatically over the years, which has created a major gap between generations. Younger generations are more comfortable with newer technology, while older generations may struggle or be less familiar with it. 2 . Different values and beliefs: Each generation has its own set of values and beliefs, and these can sometimes be very different from the values and beliefs of other generations. Sometimes generations may have difficulty understanding or agreeing on certain topics. 3 . Different experiences: Each generation has experienced unique life events that have shaped their views and outlooks, such as economic booms or recessions, major political and cultural landmarks, and more. This can lead to a gap between generations as they may have difficulty understanding each other’s perspectives. 4 . Different communication styles: Different generations may communicate differently, which can cause misunderstandings and disagreements. Younger generations may be more comfortable with online communication, while older generations may prefer more traditional forms of contact.
Strategies for Bridging Generational Gaps
Respect is the foundation of any successful relationship, regardless of generation. Respect each other's opinions and experiences, and take the time to understand each other's perspectives. This also translates into open communication, which can bridge generational gaps and build trust by asking questions, allowing everyone to share their opinions, and using other active listening skills. Open communication can also be improved by leveraging technology to bridge generational gaps. Utilize tools like video conferencing, instant messaging, and digital collaboration to keep communication open.
As you encourage the use of technology, all generations should learn how to be more flexible and open-minded to different ideas, approaches, and ways of working. Employers can encourage collaboration among employees, and everyone should be willing to try new things. Of course, this doesn’t just relate to using technology. Old ways of working can become new again, as older generations can use their life experience to teach younger employees about strong work ethics and the importance of having a positive attitude.
Speaking of teaching each other, mentorship is a great way to bridge generational gaps. Employers can pair up younger and older employees and encourage them to learn from each other. Team building activities can also bring everyone together and teach each generation how to understand the other better. Workplace training for all generations can also ensure everyone is on the same page. Training can help to bridge generational gaps by identifying differences and increasing understanding and knowledge.
What’s Next?
If you are interested in learning more about bridging the gap between generations, EasyLlama’s Diversity and Inclusion training suite, including our Navigating Generational Differences mini-course, can help improve your workplace. Whether you are a leader, manager, or simply someone looking to enhance your intergenerational communication skills, EasyLlama workplace training is an excellent investment in your professional development.
