Tips for capitalizing on multiple generations in the workforce

Achieving harmony among employees seems to be getting more challenging all the time. With some employees working hybrid schedules or fully remote and others working full time in the office, communication can suffer, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. Add tension between different age groups to the mix, and achieving harmony among workers can be even more difficult. But help is available.

Understanding the generations

A September 2024 blog post from training and assessment provider Leadership Circle explains the different generations commonly found in the workforce. Baby boomers, the post says, were born between 1946 and 1964, and they are known for loyalty. Generation X individuals, born between 1965 and 1980, often show independence and an entrepreneurial spirit, and they value flexibility at work.

Millennials, those born between 1981 and 1997, are tech-savvy and interested in collaboration, professional growth, and purpose-driven work. Gen Z, those born after 1997, want security and stability and are cause-oriented.

The Leadership Circle post notes that organizations need to avoid stereotyping individuals by age group. Instead, leaders need to take time to understand employees on a personal level. But a general understanding of the various age groups is helpful. “Successfully leading a multigenerational workforce means recognizing and leveraging the unique strengths that each generation brings to the table,” the post says.