Bring Generations Together in the Workplace

Today’s workplace is a multi-generational one with employees ranging from Baby Boomers to Millennials to those in Generation Z. This can mean a host of different ideas, fresh voices, traditional values, and new skills that all combine to give your company a competitive edge. 

At the same time, it can be difficult to manage a team so diverse. How can you make the most of each individual and also bring them all together? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Embrace the differences and the similarities.

Don’t try to get each generation to conform to one another. Instead, celebrate and take advantage of the many differences they bring to the table. 

For instance, create a mentoring program where you’re pairing an entry-level or junior employee with a senior-level one. The knowledge transfer shouldn’t just be one way, however. Both should be learning from each other, and strengthening the team and company as a result. 

Also, just because there’s a significant age gap between your youngest and more experienced workers, don’t assume they don’t want the same things. Many workers still have similar goals and concerns. Find out what they are, engage with your team on them, and identify common ground, so everyone feels like they’re part of something great. 

Demand quality work from everyone.

Regardless of whether you have new employees who just graduated from college, or veteran ones who have been in the workplace for decades, you need a certain level of performance from each and every one. To achieve that, connect individually with all of your workers, as well as together, as a team. This ensures everyone understands their roles, goals and has what they need to thrive and succeed. 

Show your appreciation.

Employees from every generation appreciate when their hard work is acknowledged. So make recognition a part of the culture. Everyone will feel more valued and more vested in the company as a result. Whether they’re a younger worker or a more experienced one, they’ll be more loyal to your company as a result. 

Respect different styles of communication.

For those in the Baby Boomer generation they might prefer face-to-face conversations or talking over the phone. Younger generations might be easier to communicate with via text or Instant Messaging. Figure out which communication style works best for each employee and respect their differences. Don’t force them into one way that doesn’t work for them. 

Take advantage of their different needs.

Those in the Baby Boomer generation might prefer a traditional 9-5 schedule in the office. Those who identify as Gen Y or Gen X might instead want a mix of both traditional office hours on some days and the ability to telecommute or work flex hours on others. Whatever your team members need, make it easy for people to work in the way that’s best for them. They’ll be happier and more productive, as a result. 

Need help hiring for your multi-generational workforce?

Gill Staffing is here for you. As one of the top staffing agencies in Northern Michigan, we have access to a pre-qualified network of active and passive candidates, as well as the expertise and a 20-point process in place to ensure we identify the ones that are ideal for you. Contact us today to learn more or get started.