Four Generations Working Together : CMBA Blog

There is a new problem in the workplace, and it has nothing to do with downsizing, global competition, pointy-haired bosses, stress or greed. Instead, it is the problem of distinct generations ? the Veterans, the Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y ? working together and often colliding as their paths cross. Individuals with different values, different ideas, different ways of getting things done and different ways of communicating in the workplace have always existed. So, why is this becoming a problem now?

This is the first time in American history that we have had four different generations working side-by-side in the workplace.

Research indicates that people communicate based on their generational backgrounds. Each generation has distinct attitudes, behaviors, expectations, habits and motivational buttons. Learning how to communicate with the different generations can eliminate many major confrontations and misunderstandings in the workplace and the world of business.

Understanding these characteristics about individuals makes it easier to look at workplace characteristics and how they manifest themselves in business (see Workplace Characteristics).

For example, annual review compensation may be for the company to explore reward plans geared to the different generations, or change to monetary rewards and recognition given at the time when it is earned.

Knowing the preferred communication method of? a team made up of several different generations might solve problems before they arise. The Veterans on the team may prefer handwritten notes and direct, specific requests for work to be done. The Boomers do not like to work independently, and they expect to have meetings any time, any place ? and it is fine if they are called day or night. Xers do not want to hear about the project outside of work, and don?t dare call them at home. And the Yers don?t want any meetings at all, they only communicate via voice mail and e-mail. At the beginning of any team formation, an effective leader should consider spending time learning how team members wish to communicate.

Being aware of differences can help individuals tailor their message for maximum effect, regardless of the task, or the relationship ? family, friends, workplace peers. Good business is based on understanding others. The majority of us think the correct way, and the only way, is our way. In business, as well as in personal life, that is just not true.

References for this article include:

Karp, Hank; Fuller, Connie; Sirias, Danilo. Bridging the Boomer Xer Gap: Creating Authentic Teams for High Performance at Work. Palo Alto, Calif.: Davies-Black Publishing, 2002.

Kersten, Denise. ?Today?s Generations Face New Communications Gap,? USA Today, November 15, 2002.

Lancaster, Lynne C.; Stillman, David. When Generations Collide: Who They Are, Why They Clash, How to Solve the Generational Puzzle at Work. HarperCollins Publishers Inc., 2002.

Sago, Brad. ?Uncommon Threads: Mending the Generation Gap at Work,? Executive Update, July 2000.

Walston, Sandra Ford. Distinguishing Communication Approaches Across Generations, 1999 (online publication), http://www.walstoncourage.com/pages/articles/generation.htm.

Zemke, Ron; Raines, Claire; Filipczak, Bob. Generations at Work: Managing the Clash of Veterans, Boomers, Xers, and Nexters in Your Workplace. New York, N.Y.: American Management Association, 2000.

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