Welcome to the Multigenerational Workplace! Working in a multigenerational team is an excellent opportunity to experience diversity. Each generation brings its experiences and visions with them. Differences among generations can spark new ideas and trigger new ways of working. On the other hand, conflicts can become a growing issue in a multigenerational team. Are you wondering what positives and negatives can bring such an environment? Read on to find out!
Pros and Cons of Multigenerational Team
So what challenges and opportunities bring a multigenerational team?
Pros
- Talent pipeline
- Drives innovation
- Sharing of different perspectives and best practices
- Learning from each other
Cons
- Possible miscommunication
- Different working styles
- Stereotyping
Closing the Generational Gap
We have spoken about the generational gap already in this blog post. But do you know what a generational gap in the workplace means? Every generation grows up being shaped by different events and might have different opinions and views. These circumstances that shaped each generation can translate to different working expectations and styles. These different expectations and styles can further contribute to misunderstandings between ages in the team. It is essential to know how to navigate through a multigenerational environment successfully.
Successful Strategies for Multigenerational Teams
Respect each other
“Respect is crucial in any environment. Imagine newcomers, senior members, and younger and older generations working together. It does not matter how old you are or if you are in a senior or junior position. What matters is how respectful you can be to one another. As Sir Richard Branson said: “respect is how to treat everyone.” Respect is crucial in any environment. Imagine newcomers, senior members, and younger and older generations working together. It does not matter how old you are or if you are in a senior or junior position. What matters is how respectful you can be to one another. As Sir Richard Branson said: “respect is how to treat everyone.“
Stop creating Stereotypes
We have spoken about different generation groups in our previous blog posts. And we have described each group as having something in common. However, as each person is another, let’s not stereotype everyone. Not all Gen Z-ers are non-stop on social media. Not all Baby Boomers are struggling with technology. Being open-minded and accepting of each unique personality can help us to collaborate better in the workplace.
Adapt your communication style
With many generations working in one workplace, it can become difficult to communicate effectively. There is something else that ticks with each generation and each unique personality. Older generations might prefer in-person meetings to discuss important topics. That does not mean they cannot attend an online meeting, but they would be more comfortable expressing their opinions while looking into somebody’s eyes. Younger generations prefer online meetings, messaging, and anything that can be done on the run. Making compromises within a team is very important. Alternating between different communication styles can lead to everyone being satisfied. It also helps to help people learn how to get out of their comfort zone.
Don’t focus on the differences, instead search for similarities
Being focused too much on the differences can break the team apart. Have a quiet moment and think about parallels with your team members from other generations. What brings you closer? What connects you? After all, everyone wants to be happy and respected in their workplace.
Are you inspired to learn more?
Check out our previous blog posts from the generations series here.
