Challenges with Multi-Generational Management in the Workforce

Posted on September 18, 2019

Challenges-in-Working-with-Multi-Generations-400x400Did you know that there are four separate generations working side-by-side in today’s modern workplace? Those generations are Traditionalists (born before 1946), Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964), Generation X (born 1965-1980), and Generation Y or Millennials (born 1981-2000). Every workplace, in every industry, is facing multi-generational management challenges. According to Business News Daily there are four key challenges of the multi-generational workforce.

  1. Company culture
  2. Communication style
  3. Negative stereotypes
  4. Cultural expectations

Company Culture

Attracting, retaining, and engaging employees is important in any business and one way to achieve this is by creating a company culture where people thrive. Creating such a culture can be challenging when there are four generations to engage.

Communication Style

There are bound to be differences in how you communicate with the different generations within your office and throughout your life. However, assuming that Gen Z employees only communicate via text, or that Baby Boomers only want to talk on the phone may not be the correct approach. We must understand and value differences and get everyone on the same page when it comes to communication.

Negative Stereotypes

Lazy. Entitled. Workaholic. These are a few stereotypes older generations might use to describe millennials or anyone in younger generations. Stereotypes occur everywhere and the workplace is not exempt. Managers face the challenge of helping their workforce to overcome these embedded stereotypes, but leaders need to intervene when there are problems caused by misunderstandings and generational judgments.

Cultural Expectations

Who requires more praise? What generation values work-life balance? As the workforce evolved with the ever-changing technology trends there is also a shift in cultural expectations. For example, older workers might be used to having their performance measured by the number of hours spent at their desks.  Cultural expectations among the multi-generations varies and leaders need to acknowledge every situation and allow individuals to work in the style that’s best for them. This approach will keep everyone inspired.

Learn More about Multi-Generational Management & How to Effectively Communicate at RJ Young’s Lunch & Learn 

How do you effectively communicate between the four generations in the workforce to achieve your business goals?

Join RJ Young Tuesday, October 8th for a lunch and learn with guest speaker Jay McChord to hear about strategies, skills, tactics, and tools to help your business or team start working together more productively and communicate more effectively.

Jay McChord is recognized as an authority on multi-generational management and is a highly requested speaker, trainer, and corporate consultant to companies, institutions, and organizations globally. He will lead this program focusing on communication between generations.

Spots are limited – register today HERE!

Lunch & Learn: How to Thrive in the Multi-Generational Workforce

October 8th | 11:00am – 1:00 pm

Nissan Stadium | West Club Level, 4th Floor

1 Titans Way, Nashville, TN 37213

Questions? Contact 615-255-8551 or info@rjyoung.com.

RJ Young is providing this free resource to help your business. For additional solutions for your company visit RJYoung.com

Sign up for our newsletter to hear about the latest office technology trends, products and services, advice, how-to's, and upcoming events!