Today we work in a corporate world where five generations constitute the workforce. A never-before-seen shift in the job market! This makes me dive deeper into the hidden diversity challenge that comes along with it. Generational Diversity. I believe each of these generations draws beliefs and perspectives from events in their time. Multigenerational teams working together will be eager to put forward their varied views and opinions. What if this gives way for conflicting viewpoints loaded with unconscious bias?
How can decision-makers blend their talents and experiences to create a harmonious and productive workforce?
Working as an HR Director for an organization constantly looking to embrace age diversity, I am accountable to instill a consciously inclusive company culture.
Sincerely,
Concerned HR Director
Dear Concerned,
Your thoughts are valid but solvable.
Each of the five generations (Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Veterans) has different wants, needs, and expectations. The key is to tailor and redefine an organization’s employee engagement strategies. However, in doing so, a one-size-fits-all approach is not the way forward.
# Identify preferred management style
- Understanding what your employees from varied generations view as good leadership will help managers take decisions more decisively to better support the employees.
# Get the message delivered
- A healthy mix of verbal, written, and digital communication aided by team-building exercises can break down the barriers that come with generational diversity.
# Accommodate diverse working styles
- The pandemic has changed the way we work. Remote/Flexible working is a reality. Organizations adapting to this change can attract and retain employees from all generations of life.
# Create learning opportunities
- Upskilling and reskilling employees foster learning and collaboration among generations. Knowledge-sharing sessions, reverse mentoring programs, etc., benefits employees’ career growth and confidence.
# Combat bias and stereotypes
- Conduct training programs and webinars to confront age-based stereotypes. Leaders can intervene to strike-off biases in an organization’s people policies, employees and management approach.
Click on these links to read more on how to achieve generational diversity.
Keep writing!
