Every year, workforces become multigenerational as new talents from different generations join the older generations already part of the team. Because of their differences in beliefs, values, and preferences, finding common ground for these workers to meet and be open to collaborating can be tricky.
To overcome this challenge, here are some tips on managing a multigenerational workforce that you can tweak to match your workforce:
1. Know The Age Stereotypes In Your Workforce
Age is but a number, and it does not necessarily indicate a person’s proficiency in completing tasks. Even the most mature employee can’t do specific tasks as well as a younger employee could, but they can compensate with their experience and skills. With this in mind, knowing which age stereotypes are present in your workforce is best, such as the belief that older employees are resistant to change or that younger employees lack experience. Identifying and correcting these behaviours can help create a more harmonious and productive multigenerational team.
2. Support Multigenerational Teams
It is not uncommon for employees to group with those in their age bracket. As a result, there’s always a conflict when sharing ideas and finding new ways to resolve problems. But, if you diversify teams and encourage them to work together, they can bridge the gap and be open to new ideas.
3. Have A Mentorship Program
Establishing a mentorship program can be a powerful tool to foster learning and growth among your multigenerational employees. This initiative allows your older employees to share their wealth of knowledge and experience with the younger generation, inspiring them to develop new skills and perspectives.
4. Offer Training Programmes About Multigenerational Issues
Training programmes designed to discuss multigenerational issues and how to manage them should also be included in your team’s schedule, especially when new members join. These programmes should cover topics like identifying the strengths of each generation and creating a work culture that will allow each employee to flourish.
5. Create Personalised Team Activities
Investing in personalised team activities is a tangible way to show your employees that they are valued and appreciated. By creating opportunities for them to interact and bond, you can foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie within your multigenerational workforce.
6. Use A Multigenerational Hiring Practice
You can manage a multigenerational workforce by having a positive multigenerational hiring practice that will indicate to employees that you are committed to diversity. Teach your recruiters, HR teams, and anyone involved in the hiring process to be open to hiring candidates from any generation and act accordingly against biases.
Whether you are a manager or an employee, understanding the benefits of having a multigenerational team can go a long way in ensuring that everyone in the team feels welcome and is successful in their fields.
A multigenerational team brings diverse perspectives, experiences, and skills, which can lead to more innovative solutions and a richer work environment. Utilising the tips above and adjusting them accordingly can bridge the gap between your employees and enhance everyone’s productivity.
I have built plenty of successful teams. Check out these articles to help you:
Excellent Habits of High Performing Teams
Encourage Your Team to Learn New Things
How to Delegate Work to Your Team
Can’t get enough of MiddleMe? You can find me sharing my thoughts here as well:
Instagram @kallymiddleme
X (MiddleMe_net)
FaceBook (MiddleMe.net)
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/kallytay
