Last Thursday, we hosted our 5 Generations in The Workplace event at Maggiano’s. Tina Asher from Build U Up Consulting spoke on the importance of being aware of and understanding the differences within each generation and how to communicate effectively.
With five generations now in the workforce, we have numerous personalities, work ethics, and communication styles within each. As a result of this, it is important now more than ever to focus on how we interact with one another, especially when it comes to disagreements in the workplace.
Many disagreements occur not only from lack of communication, but also a disconnect in the way we speak to one another and convey our emotions. Each generation tends to show their emotions, both positive and negative, in different ways. Baby Boomers & GenX’s may be more inclined to hold back their emotions when frustrated, whereas Millennials & GenZ’s may be more upfront and open about their dissatisfaction. When this happens, we should focus on why the other person is reacting the way they are.
Because each generation was raised in such unique ways, it makes for an interesting combination of managers and employees. Their expectations differ greatly, as do their interests. A manager from the Baby Boomer generation may view a social issue as unimportant whereas a GenZ may feel very passionate about the issue at hand. This can cause a disconnect both in and out of the workplace, making it essential to work towards finding the most efficient and effective way to speak with each other. This is easier said than done, of course, however, having consistent and meaningful conversations on employees’ performance can prove more successful in the long run.
Another key point made was the importance of not assuming and instead asking questions for understanding. It’s easy to fall into the trap of prejudging someone based on their age or generation. It could be the manager or Foreman assumes key information is known but it isn’t and problems arise. In the field this can have dire consequences. And in the office if you don’t ask questions and gain real understanding the relationship between team members can also impact the success of a project and ultimately a company. She mentioned not putting anyone in a box and instead use the differences in generations to better understand where they are coming from and expectations. All generations have expectations and these expectations do vary from generation to generation. Avoiding stereotyping each other will lead to better relationships and productivity as you instead appreciate the positives each other brings.
If companies have policies in place as well as training, it will mitigate the challenges of multi-generations in the workforce. The understanding the training brings will reduce friction and the policies of no-tolerance for differences will provide a better future for all.
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