Multi-Generational Differences In The Workplace

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Today’s workplace population spans over four generations including traditionalists/the silent generation (born between 1925-1945), baby boomers (born between 1946-1964), Generation X (born between 1965-1980), and Generation Y/Millennial (born between 1981 and 2000) (Frandsen, 2013; Jones, 2017). A generation is a selection of people that are born within the same age span, experiencing similar social events and historical process, and demonstrates a specific range of qualities that distinguishes one generation from the next (Sessa, Kabacoff, Deal, & Brown, 2007). From generation to generation there are many divergences including workplace factors such as attitudes, beliefs, values, work ethics, perception and expectations that can influence …show more content…

Leaders need a great understanding of the different opportunities that a multi-generational workplace can offer, for the reason that the new generation performs differently when in comparison to generation with years of experience. According to Kaifi, Nafei, Khanfar, & Kaifi (2012), differences between employees can create issues that can result in reducing the effectiveness of the workplace. Therefore, as a leader it is essential to establish a multi-generational workplace, with the intent to combine the distinction qualities to become a whole, that creates a workplace that expresses the quality of care and a successful pleasant …show more content…

This can be very useful in a way, where the Traditional and Baby Boomer generations are struggling with technology, the Generation Y can aid in improving these skills, due to the fact they are very tech savvy (Gursoy et al., 2008). During this engagement, it may also allow for communication between the generations to help build relationships and Generation Y may desire a mentor, become familiar with skills, knowledge and some traditions, in the result of strengthening the connection and reducing conflict and tension between the generations (Sessa et al., 2007). An additional benefit for Generation Y and X is the opportunities embarking considering the Traditional and Baby Boomer generation are approaching retirement (Jones, 2017). These benefits as the opportunity to assemble a multi-generational workplace environment exhibiting high job satisfaction, work performance, productivity, attendance and retention (Jones,