Working Successfully in
Multi-Generational Teams

In today's workforce, we are beginning to see a unique situation with work teams that include individuals from five different generations. This is a result of individuals working much longer and later in life than before, and with people living longer than in previous decades. It's essential to understand how these individuals can work together better to improve the productivity of the team.
 

Generation Profiles
To understand how diverse five generation teams are, we must first outline generation profiles. The generation profiles are the key to how each generation relates to work, life, and relationships with others. The five primary generations in today's workforce are:

     1. The Silent Generation (born between 1925-1945)
     2. Baby Boomers (born between 1946-1964)
     3. Generation X (born between 1965-1980)
     4. Millennials (born between 1981-1996)

     5. Generation Z, (born between 1997 and 2012)

The Silent Generation are traditionalists; they value experience, working in hierarchical structures, and sticking to traditions. They are fierce respectors of authority. They avoided causing disruption and work to reduce conflict in the workplace. They also have a strong desire to feel needed by the people around them.

 

The Baby Boomers, on the other hand, are known to be work-centric and like to have an impact in the workplace. They are often known for their strong work ethic, loyalty, and dedication to their jobs. Many of them are now in leadership roles and are expected to work well beyond traditional retirement age.  Baby Boomers tend to value stability and job security, and they prefer face-to-face communication rather than relying on technology.

Generation Xers  are generally adaptable and resourceful, having grown up in a time of rapid technological change. They are often described as independent and entrepreneurial, as they were raised during a time of economic uncertainty and often had to create their own opportunities. Generation Xers tend to value work-life balance and prefer flexible work arrangements. They are also comfortable with technology, but they often prefer to communicate in a more direct and straightforward manner than Millennials.
 

Millennials, also known as Generation Y, are currently the largest generation in the workforce and are often characterized as tech-savvy and socially conscious. Millennials tend to value work that has a purpose and aligns with their values, and they prefer a collaborative work environment with frequent feedback. They often prioritize work-life balance and a strong connection with their colleagues and are also known for their reliance on technology and tend to communicate via email, text, and social media.
 

Generation Z, the youngest generation in the workforce, are still early in their careers, but they are already making their mark by bringing new ideas and perspectives to the workplace. Gen Zers tend to have a strong desire for independence and prefer working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. They are also comfortable with technology and tend to communicate through social media and messaging apps.
 

Strategies for Collaboration

 

The differences in values and work styles between the five generations can create tension and conflict when working together in teams. However, there are several strategies that can be used to make collaboration more effective.
 

1. Encourage open communication and feedback - This is perhaps the most critical strategy in improving collaboration between generations. Encouraging open communication allows team members to voice their concerns and ideas freely, promoting a sense of trust and mutual respect.

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2. Embrace diversity - Embracing diversity means recognizing and valuing the differences between team members. It involves respect for different cultural, generational, religious, and educational backgrounds.

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3. Focus on common goals - Team members should focus on common goals while understanding that everyone has different methods of achieving them. This approach can help find solutions that work best for everyone.

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4. Make use of technology - Different generations have different experiences with technology. Providing easy-to-use technology that everyone can access can ensure that team members can work effectively together, even if they are working remotely.

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5. Celebrate success - Celebrating the success of the team can help bring everyone together, regardless of their generational differences.

 

Conclusion

There are several strategies that can be used to ensure that five generation work teams can work together better. Open communication, embracing diversity, focusing on common goals, using technology, and celebrating success can help promote a working environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and understood. The most successful teams are those that leverage the different skills and experiences of every team member, irrespective of generational differences. By doing so, the team can promote creativity, innovation, and productivity.In conclusion, while these generational differences can sometimes lead to conflict, understanding and respecting each other's preferences and strengths can ultimately lead to a more productive and harmonious workplace. As the workforce evolves, it will be important for employers to recognize and adapt to these generational differences to effectively lead and manage their employees.

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Let's connect to see how Creative Learning Solutions can help you lead and grow a multi-generational, highly-functional, collaborative team that communicates effectively while mutually respecting one another.  Contact us, today.