It is well known different generations have very different views and approaches to life and also to work. We are all familiar with the problems caused by differences among Millennials and the “Z” generation. As a result, some Millennials have started to feel threatened. Luckily, there are ways to manage this challenge.
Teambuilding activities: The best way to solve a problem between two or more people is to put them face-to-face. But, of course, you can’t just summon all of your employees together and get directly into the sensitive subject: the cause of their troubles. It often will lead to nothing good.
However, teambuilding activities are a great way to bring your team together. Your team will forget about the generational divide and will have fun bonding over a shared activity. But you should be aware that humans tend to form small groups comprising people of the same generation. To avoid this, add a little creativity to your methods.
Management training: Management training is required in order to fix the generational problem. The majority of people do not quit their jobs; they quit their bosses. That is why it is important to have an effective manager.
Moreover, managers have to be trained on the generational divide and also on the work styles, habits, and values of each generation. A manager with proper knowledge who also is equipped with skills for embracing these differences will be highly effective.
Communication preferences: Each generation has both a different lifestyle and communication style. Each generation has a preferred communication approach and may have different levels of comfort with technology.
Generation Zers may embrace less interpersonal styles and more technical ways of communication, for example. So you should make sure everyone understands that all methods of communication are acceptable, respected, and important.
Furthermore, incorporate all the ways of exchanging information into the work process. Help the young generation learn more about the interpersonal expression and the older one about the digital platforms of communication.
Diversity is good: A great way to avoid the conflicts caused by a generational gap while also forming a more collaborative environment is to develop a culture that embraces diversity. You will see the benefits it brings to each group, as having a team with a diverse perspective leads to better decisions, more expertise, and creative solutions.
In accordance with this acceptance of diversity, leaders should channel their focus on the advantages of the generation gap and should publicly highlight the strengths of each team member. Soon, all of your employees will learn that each team member is valued, and, therefore, progressively work to eliminate their existent generational prejudice.
Toxic personalities: It is sad that the whole bunch can be ruined by one bad apple. According to this, as a leader, you can’t afford the negative impact of a toxic personality. A negative employee can be spotted by his or her tendencies to be negative, to tell lies, and to stand around when drama erupts.
To effectively manage your company’s generation gap, you’ll want to nip all the behaviors that do not support a supportive workplace atmosphere. If the negative and bad behavior persists, it may lead to a difficult discussion or a tough end to the conversation.
Corporate leadership: There is an abundance of research that analyzes the particularities and main differences between Millennials and Generation Z employees at the workplace. According to a recent report, Generation Zers strive to become leaders. Because of this tendency, you should allow the young generation to try on the role of the leader, and, therefore, make important decisions.
Do not imagine that there will be no mistakes. However, if the team is properly supervised, you have the chance to develop a new generation of successful leaders.
Corporate education: When you give your employees resources and opportunities for growth, you’re stepping up the game for them. For example, if you gather around both the Gen Zers and the Millennials and present them with the unique benefits of writing on a daily basis, there’s a good chance it will improve the performance of some team members.
If more minds of different natures are put to contribution, you’ll obtain great results. Just like with everything in life, a balance is required. That’s exactly what a company culture needs: diversity in mindset and attitude. Without it, flexibility decreases, and results will do the same.
Achieving an Ideal Balance
Overall, generation gaps in the workplace are common, and they represent a major challenge for just about every company today. But don’t worry: If you’re dedicated enough, this challenge won’t stop your company from achieving an ideal balance in culture, mindset, and behavior among all generations.
Lucy Benton is a marketing specialist and business consultant who finds her passion in expressing own thoughts as a blogger. She currently works at Proessaywriting. She is constantly looking for the ways to improve her skills and expertise. Benton also has her own blog, ProWritingPartner, where you can check her last postings.
