Do Generation Stereotypes Hinder Supply Chain Collaboration?

Generation stereotypes exist, and as the authors of a Harvard Business Review article state, "these beliefs can get in the way of how people collaborate with their colleagues, and have troubling implications for how we people are managed and trained."

In September 2020, we asked members of our Indago supply chain research community -- who are all supply chain and logistics executives from manufacturing, retail, and distribution companies --? "Do you agree or disagree that stereotypes about the different generation groups hinders effective communication and collaboration among supply chain team members?"

(Almost half of our member respondents (45%) are from the Generation X group, with the balance belonging to the Baby Boomer (30%) and Millennial (25%) generations.)

A greater percentage of the respondents agreed that stereotypes about the different generations hinders effective communication and collaboration between supply chain team members compared to those who disagreed (45% vs. 30%). However, a relatively large percentage of the respondents (25%) were undecided.

"I think the stereotypes or assumptions about the generational groups are often wrong," said one executive. "When you dig a little deeper you find that every individual is shaped by way more than the time period they were born. It's critical that we as leaders get to know who we work with on more than a surface level to avoid falling into the trap of forming opinions based on age alone."

Another executive put it this way: "I've learned from people who are older and more experienced than me, as well as from those who are younger than me. Both groups provide different insights and experiences. Embracing these differences helps you grow."

What do you think? Do stereotypes about the different generation groups hinder effective communication and collaboration among supply chain team members? What can you learn (or have learned) from colleagues older and younger than you? Post a comment and share your perspective!

Be Uncommon. Research with Purpose.

If you're a supply chain or logistics practitioner from a manufacturing, retail, or distribution company -- and you're interested in learning from your peers and taking this weeks’ survey -- I encourage you to learn more about Indago and join our research community. It is confidential, there is no cost to join and the time commitment is minimal (2-4 minutes per week) — plus your participation will help support charitable causes like JDRF, American Logistics Aid Network, American Cancer Society, Feeding America, and Make-A-Wish.