How to Manage Generational Differences in the Workplace

Adept hiring managers and recruiters balance the skills and experiences each generation of employees brings to the organization or team, and work to encourage and understand the difficulties and obstacles that may come up, reports ClearanceJobs . Recurring complaints from baby boomers about millennial co-workers typically revolve around what they perceive as an inflated sense of entitlement, a lack of focus, and poor verbal and written communication skills. However, these complaints are more likely the result of a lack of understanding and a response to perceived threats from younger co-workers, rooted in fears of losing control, and possibly their job, to younger generations. Boomers are particularly annoyed by texting in the workplace by millennials, along with a lack of focus and restlessness. The fact remains that Gen Xers and millennials have changed the workforce for the better through expanded telework programs, more flexible schedules, and leave policies, with boomers as well as younger employees reaping those benefits. Ensuring a mutually beneficial intergenerational workforce requires older workers demonstrating confident leadership to younger employees, and mentoring them while giving them autonomy and freedom to work in their own way and space.