Can 5 Generations Coexist In The Workplace?

In the article "Can 5 Generations Coexist in the Workplace?" Jack Kelly, CEO, experienced recruiter, and founder of WeCruitr a company dedicated to recruiting executives and professionals at top-tier companies, addresses the complex dynamics of having five generations in today's workforce. These generations include the Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z, each with different expectations and mindsets that can lead to generational biases.

An EY U.S. Generation 2022 survey on corporate culture revealed that more than 90% of employees believe that company culture influences their decision to stay with the organization. However, there are notable differences between the generations. Baby Boomers show limited interest in corporate culture, with less than 30% indicating that it influenced their permanence. In contrast, Generation Z and Millennials value culture at 40%. Younger workers and LGBTQ+ employees care about the company's commitment to social responsibility, while all generations share concerns about compensation, hybrid work, promotion opportunities, and work flexibility.

Technological advancement and the rapidly changing labor market have contributed to the dynamism in career growth. Today, it is common to see young people in leadership positions, challenging the notion that only veterans can be managers. And to create a harmonious environment in a workplace that is home to these five generations, communication is key. Leaders must understand the mindsets of each group and what motivates them toward success. In addition, they must be aware of biases, whether conscious or unconscious, and commit to getting to know their employees in-depth, understanding their actions, thought processes, work styles, and communication. Each generation brings valuable experiences and unique perspectives.

In short, the successful coexistence of five generations in the workplace requires overcoming biases and fostering open, genuine, and respectful communication. Each generation should be valued for its contributions and experiences. This approach will promote a harmonious work environment where all ages can thrive together.

This article relates to my past work experience. I clearly remember that the managers of the company always tried to emphasize the hierarchy of the company, and a manager never communicated with the assistants in his area, only the direct bosses did, and you could never even think of the idea that a young worker could lead a group of employees who were even older than him. Prejudices always existed, especially with young workers, since there was a preconceived idea that they were not willing to start in entry-level positions and that they were only looking for managerial positions because their knowledge was worth more than anything else.

Now that the years have passed, I can see that these prejudices did nothing more than create stereotypes in the workplace, and worse yet did not allow the really good workers to excel just because they were young. And this is something that I saw not only in the companies where I worked but in general in all companies. There was always a dominant generation that did not know how to communicate and create bonds of trust and respect between all generations.

I know that the key is effective communication, but I think that even though we know the right path, some generations persist in standing out by highlighting the negative aspects of other generations. It is a joint work, and only if all generations are willing to change, we will achieve a work environment of respect and common good for all.

What was your impression of this review? Do you agree with this article? Let me know what you think in the comments.

Kelly, J. (2023, March 1). Can 5 Generations Coexist In The Workplace? Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackkelly/2023/03/01/can-five-generations-coexist-in-the-workplace/?sh=4594ad331f2e