How to Take Advantage of a Multigenerational Workforce
Employees are retiring later and, as a result, several generations are now working side by side. Harnessing the experience and energy of a multigenerational workforce is now a necessity for businesses. However, blending Traditionalists and Boomers with the alphabet of Gen X, Y, and Z can be hard to manage. Statistics show that while 70% of businesses think successful leadership of a multigenerational workforce is key, just 10% feel equipped to do it.
Is your business up to navigating 5 generations of workers?
Here are 5 ways to take advantage of a multigenerational workforce.
1. Appreciate Different Approaches
Figuring out how each generation typically approaches work is a good starting point. Do your younger employees prefer to communicate via instant messaging rather than text, email, or phone? Do older employees favor working independently while younger workers prefer a more collaborative effort? Considering these differences can help managers to build teams and set common goals.
2. Understand Work Expectations
While older workers may prioritize financial incentives, the younger generations might be seeking acknowledgment. Gen Y and Z often rank social justice and inclusivity higher on their list of workplace requirements than their older counterparts do. Understanding expectations and meeting them builds a healthier work culture.
3. Encourage Communication
While understanding generational preferences is a good idea, be careful of co-workers making assumptions about one another. It’s too easy to assume that an older worker has more on-the-job experience or that a younger worker is more comfortable with the latest tech. Instead, foster communication between co-workers. Focus on what they have in common. Open communication can help to mitigate unproductive stereotyping.
4. Team Up
Consider the balance of your teams. Encourage a wide age range. Having a shared goal can help everyone find common ground. Working on a project together can create a cohesive working environment and a better appreciation for what everyone can offer.
5. Teach One Another
A multigenerational workforce can be ripe with ideas. Why not leverage it? Learning from one another can only enrich the workplace. Remember, coaching and mentoring can go both ways. Think about pairing up folks that can teach each other something regardless of their age.
A multigenerational workforce is already here.
The best way to take advantage of yours? Make sure that it’s well led.
Resources
Jeff Schwartz et al. (2020, May 15). Leading a multigenerational workforce. Deloitte.com
Expert Panel, Forbes Coaches Council. (2019, Feb 12). 13 Tips For Bringing Your Multigenerational Workforce Together. Forbes.com
Robinson-Celeste, Janice. (2017, Dec 6). How to Manage a Multigenerational Workforce and Not Go Totally Insane . Huffpost.com
Martic, Kristina. (2010, March 8). The Ultimate Guide to Managing a Multigenerational Workforce. Haiilo.com
