In many workplaces today, you’ll find four generations working together. Baby boomers who have yet to retire, Generation X, Millennials, and even some Generation Z workers who have recently graduated make up the current workforce. It’s not always easy to manage a team of people who are so vastly different. It’s a good idea to look at each cohort and learn the similarities and differences. Here are our tips for managing a multi-generational workforce.
Baby Boomers
Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, began to retire en masse during the early days of the pandemic. But that doesn’t mean they’ve exited the workplace altogether. Many are still working in environments with much younger coworkers. Many baby boomers still struggle without early exposure to technology, and this feeling of insecurity can be affected by working with younger generations. One goal would be to create a two-way mentorship program to help younger workers learn from the Boomers while the older generation becomes more technologically savvy.
Generation X
Generation X is a relatively small group compared to the others; Generation X was the Slacker Generation as teenagers. Born between 1965 and 1980, they make up 33% of the workforce. Their most common trait is self-reliance, mainly due to being the first generation with both parents working outside the home. GenX can sometimes have trouble with authority, but they make great leaders if you lean into their natural talents.
Millennials
Millennials currently make up the largest cohort in the workplace. They were born between 1981 and 1996, and millennials make up the largest segment of today’s workforce, surpassing boomers in 2016. They were the first generation to be raised with technology, so it’s great to tap into that experience. They are also a group that prefers to work collaboratively rather than competitively.
GenZ
The youngest generation in the workforce is Generation Z. Born between 1997 and 2012; the oldest GenZers are graduating and entering the workforce. They are expected to rival millennials as the largest segment in the future. They are also tech-savvy, but they are most passionate about diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Bridging the Generational Gap
Our best tips for encouraging teamwork between multiple generations include:
- Offer various methods of communication, including phone, email, and text
- Develop a mentorship program so different generations can teach and learn from one another
- Don’t create age-related segregated groups in the workplace; encourage everyone to work together
- Always show your appreciation for their contribution to the company
Are you ready to hire a diverse group of experienced employees?
Work with the staffing professionals at The Vision Companies today. Visit our website and get in touch to see how we can enhance your hiring process!
