Managing Multigenerational Mayhem in the Workplace

The workplace may seem like it has more generations than a Catholic family reunion. Balancing the "back in my day" stories that nobody wants to hear with eye rolls made over a smart device can take as much energy as keeping the business afloat.?

How can you effectively maneuver through the minefield of perspectives, preferences, communication styles, and pop culture references? Read on to learn how to make music out of multi-generational mayhem.?

Communication Calculation

Baby Boomers may want a good old face-to-face conversation, Gen X may opt for an email, and Millennials and Gen Z may prefer a line of emojis that could rival any hieroglyphics ever found.?

Tip: Employees should find common ground in how they relate to each other. Foster everyone's preference while encouraging employees to communicate in new ways. For example, ask Gen Z to have face-to-face meetings occasionally, and Boomers to learn how to use Slack and Miro boards..?

Respect Remediation

Good-natured ribbing is one thing, but don't let it get ugly. While there may initially be a lack of understanding and appreciation across generations, ridicule, gossip, and backbiting should never be tolerated.?

Tip: Cultivate an empathetic culture that ditches stereotypes and assumptions. Create ways (like two-way mentoring) that the generations can get to know each other on an individual basis. A respectful workplace is more likely to help everyone see each other's similarities instead of the differences. (Although nobody is every going to understand some of the Boomer's style choices).?

Appreciation Amplification

Every generation has their own strengths and unique ways of tackling problems.

Tip: Take every opportunity to highlight the strengths of each generation. No, a Millennial may not remember when we landed on the moon, but they can show you how to install the latest productivity app on your phone. And Gen X may not understand TikTok, but they can probably school you on how to ask for a raise.?

The multi-generational workplace is a melting pot of perspectives. It's up to the organization's leaders to make it into a tasty stew instead of a poisonous porridge. By encouraging respect, diversity, and multiple communication avenues, employees will move away from being annoyed and intimidated by other generations. Instead, they will be a cohesive unit with a healthy appreciation of every one of their colleagues.?

We are rooting for you!

Avery and Brian