It’s no secret that the workforce has been evolving as the new generations are entering and more baby boomers are retiring. Many companies currently have employees from four generations. This brings a wide range of skills, knowledge, and experience, but managing a multi-generational workplace is difficult. Take a look at these common multi-generational workplace issues.
Negative Stereotypes About Other Generations
It is commonly assumed that Baby Boomers don’t feel uncomfortable using modern technology, Gen X workers just want to get ahead, Millennials are lazy, and Gen Z workers don’t have any interpersonal skills. These stereotypes stem from a lack of understanding of other generations, frequently lead to a lack of respect, and do not promote a productive work environment.
Different Work Styles
There may be a significant difference between the various generations’ preferred work methods. Baby Boomers are used to putting in long workdays at the office, while Gen Y and Gen Z workers normally seek flexible hours and telecommuting options. Also, older workers are typically more inclined to take an assignment or project alone, while younger workers prefer group-based work and frequent feedback.
Communication Issues
Many companies have incorporated new software with messaging systems for managers and their teams. Text messaging may be a more standard method of communication for younger employees, while some older workers would rather communicate through email or phone calls. Employees want their preferred method of communication to be used by their managers.
Cultural Expectations
According to Business News Daily, as the workplace strives to keep up with new technologies and mobile work trends, a shift in cultural expectations has also occurred. This can be a difficult transition, especially for older workers since they are used to having performance measured by the number of hours spent at their desks. While as for many younger managers, time spent in the office is not as vital as the results produced. Members of Generation Y also value and expect a healthy work-life balance. All employees seek recognition for the work they do, access to the resources they need and feedback that is delivered in an appropriate way for them.
Company Culture
People commonly assume that company culture for younger generations means plenty of fun team activities and no set office rules. While these can be perks, they don’t define company culture. It is impossible to please everyone, which is why employment practices liability insurance is so important. The way employees receive company culture is one of the toughest and most important aspects of business, because a happy workforce promotes productivity.
About World Wide Specialty Programs
For the last 50 years, World Wide Specialty Programs has dedicated itself to providing the optimal products and solutions for the staffing industry. As the only insurance firm to be an ASA commercial liability partner, we are committed to that partnership and committed to using our knowledge of the industry to provide staffing firms with the best possible coverage. For more information about Staffing Professional Liability Insurance or any other coverage, we have available to protect your staffing business, give us a call at (877) 256-0468 to speak with one of our representatives.