Generational Differences May Not Be So Great After All

Generational Differences May Not Be So Great After All

It’s a rare workplace that doesn’t include representatives of 3 or even 4 generations – ‘Boomers’, Gen-Xers, Gen-Yers and sometimes ‘traditionals’.  And it is often the case that generational differences are the source of some friction.  These differences, while very real, don’t have to be the source of unproductive tensions.  As with all differences, the key is for everyone to understand and accept ways in which each of us sees the world differently.

Despite the differences, there are many things that people of all ages share with respect to what motivates them to do their best work.  In the research we have done over the past two decades, we have found that the vast majority of individuals, regardless of many differences, agree that when the following qualities are present, they are motivated to put forth their very best efforts:

• A sense of purpose and meaning in what they are doing
• Belief that they are making a real contribution
• Opportunity to use their skills and talents
• Opportunity to learn and grow
• Having a significant level of autonomy
• Feeling respected

With these things in mind, employers can do well to put in place practices that assure the presence of all of the above, including:

• Involve everyone in clarifying mission, vision and strategy
• Assist every employee in setting developmental goals
• Provide opportunities for training, mentoring and challenging assignments
• Provide frequent informal feedback
• Structures that allow for individual initiative taking and autonomy when appropriate
• Ensure that all managers have strong management skills