How To Work With Multiple Generations of Employees

We’ve worked with multiple generations for years, but today’s workforce faces unique challenges.

While it used to be just a few generations working together, most organizations now have employees from five different generations, each with their own motivations, experiences, and perspectives.

Managing employees who care about different things and creating an environment where all generations are valued and engaged can be challenging.

Here are three ways to work with and lead multiple generations of employees:

1. Avoid stereotypes. Don’t assume that every person from a generation acts or believes a certain way. Not every older employee is bad with technology, and not every younger employee is entitled or lazy. Be aware of what stereotypes exist to make sure you don’t bring them into your organization.
2. Focus on the life stage. The stage somebody is at in their life is more important than the stereotype. They might be a younger employee who has a family and kids or an older employee with few responsibilities. Focusing on the life stage helps you understand each employee as an individual instead of just a member of their generation.
3. Practice empathy. Empathy is always important, but especially when working with multiple generations. We need to remember that different generations went through different things. Try to see things from their perspective and understand where they’re coming from.

Successfully bringing together multiple generations can create a rich and diverse workforce that highlights the strengths of all employees and leads to growth and productivity.

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