Last week, we took a look at how GSuite can be beneficial for Millennials in the workplace. As we learned from the blog, Millennials value flexibility, technology, and a work-life balance. On the flip side, employees from other generations, including Baby Boomers, prefer to have conversations in person. Also, Baby Boomers are willing to put in “face time” at the office, and work long hours to get the job done. As an employer, how do you take your employees’ values and work habits into consideration? And perhaps more importantly, how do you help fight the stereotypes that accompany members of various generations? Each generation has a lot to bring to the table that would make a business successful, and with good management, a multi-generational company can work well together.
Boomers in Business
While Baby Boomers are now nearing the age of retirement, they still comprise about one-quarter of the workforce. Although stereotypes about Boomers abound- they can’t use technology, they live to work, and they are inflexible. These perceptions are often over exaggerated. In addition to the wisdom and experience that comes with age, Baby Boomers have a lot to offer a workplace, such as:
- Loyalty
- Hard work
- Good communication skills
- Willingness to work as a team
X-Cellent Gen X
Caught between Boomers and Millennials, is Gen X. They make up one-third of the current workforce, and occupy 51% of all leadership roles in business. Also known as the “sandwich generation”, Gen X-ers are often tasked with simultaneously caring for children and aging parents. As a result, Gen X-ers are looking for a work-life balance and a flexible work schedule. Some great traits that Gen X-ers exemplify include:
- A hands-off management style
- Comfort with technology
- Self-sufficiency
- Flexibility
Millions of Millennials
Millennials make up the fastest-growing group of employees in the United States. They currently make up 35% of the workforce. Attitudes from older populations are generally negative about Millennials. Millennials are also routinely accused of “killing” industries, being lazy, feeling entitled, and being too sensitive. Just like the perceptions of Baby Boomers, the stereotypes about Millennials are often exaggerated and unfair. This generation has a lot of positive qualities, such as:
- Enthusiasm
- Open-mindedness
- Great collaboration skills
- Proficient tech skills
As a manager or business owner, how do you go about meshing the good qualities of each generation? And increase cohesion among your employees? Stay tuned next week for some tips and tricks for creating your own generational melting pot!