While age isn't typically the first element of diversity for a company, having a workforce composed of different ages brings a number of benefits to an organization. Research shows multigenerational teams are more productive, offer different viewpoints, have creative problem-solving capabilities and increase innovation.
It is not simply older employees assisting younger ones. Reverse or inter-generational mentoring can enhance career development and increase employee retention.
There are five different generations in the workplace, including the Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z. Additionally, Generation Alpha will soon begin to enter the workforce.
Understanding these generations, the time periods they came from and how different events impacted their view of work is vital to creating a healthy, supportive and collaborative workplace.
The Silent Generation. Born approximately between 1928 and 1945, the Silent Generation endured the Great Depression and WWII. Because of the hardships they faced, employees from this generation bring a deep sense of loyalty and strong moral values to the workplace. They also tend to place a high value on age and seniority and may have difficulty listening to those who are significantly younger.
Baby Boomers. Born approximately between 1946 and 1964, this generation witnessed Rosa Parks’ refusal to move from the back of the bus, President Kennedy’s assassination, the first moon landing and other events that forever changed our world. Much like the generation before them, Baby Boomers are loyal to their company and particularly to their teams. They tend to believe that sacrifice is necessary for success, bringing hard work and dedication to the workplace.
Gen X. Born approximately between 1965 and 1980, Gen X grew up experiencing the AIDs epidemic, the fall of the Berlin Wall, the normalization of personal computers, the Jonestown mass suicide and other events that may have led to their sense of resilience and focus on personal lives. They tend to value diversity and aren’t afraid to look elsewhere if their current employer isn’t meeting their needs.
Millennials. Born approximately between 1981 and 1996, Millennials are the first generation of digital natives and have grown up with social media. They were also shaped by 9/11, the Columbine school shooting and the rise of school shootings since, which has impacted their sense of security. In the workplace, Millennials thrive on responsibility, work-life balance and growth (both in themselves and in the organization they work for). These employees aren’t afraid to move on from a job if their needs aren’t being met.
Gen Z. Born approximately between 1997 and 2013, Gen Z witnessed the hardships of the 2008 recession, and shootings became the norm throughout their formative years. They were shaped by technology and social media, leading to online social justice groups and the spreading of mental health awareness. While Gen Z tends to be very individualistic in their pursuit of creating a career, they also bring a strong sense of creativity and diversity to the workplace.
Generation Alpha. Exact dates for this generation are still up for debate, with some saying 2010 to 2024 and others saying 2013 to 2024. Either way, the oldest of these children are beginning to enter the workforce or will be soon. These digital natives are the most connected generation and bring tech-savvy skills, an entrepreneurial spirit and a drive for inclusiveness and sustainability to the workplace. Due to the impact of the pandemic on this generation, one of the biggest challenges employers will face is the difficulty this generation has with deskless jobs that require physical or manual labor. This generation also values flexibility in their work, so offering flexible work options, such as remote work or flexible schedules, will likely be expected.
Understanding the working styles of other generations will help you find common ground with those you work with. Still, it’s important to remember that every individual is unique and may not fall into the norms of their generation. Getting to know your colleagues personally will always be the best way to connect with them.
