Generational Differences In The Workplace

The current workplace is made up of four different generations: Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y (Kapoor & Solomon, 2011). Traditionalists were born between 1925 and 1945, and they endured poverty and traumatic world events. Therefore, they tend to be frugal and cautious, and viewing conformity as a ticket to success (Haynes, 2011). They place more importance on what is best for the group, and prefer to receive information in a simple and straightforward manner. Baby Boomers were born between 1946 and 1964, and they tend to be perfectionists and have the willingness to sacrifice personally and professionally to achieve success (Kapoor & Solomon, 2011). They also have excellent social skills, live to work, tend to respect authority and hierarchy in the workplace, have difficulty learned new skills, are resistant to change, and …show more content…
Organizations have to create workplace adjustments in order to create a productive environment for all employees, regardless of their generation (Kapoor & Solomon, 2011). The employers must identify the different characteristics of each generation in the workplace, promote a work environment that helps the productivity of each generation, and provide their employees with the required information and skills to understand the generational characteristics of their colleagues, to create understanding among employees. Other solutions also include mentor programs, trainings on generational diversity, and improved communication methods designed to cater to the preferences of each generation (Bennett et al., 2012). According to Kapoor & Solomon (2011), “Generational differences impact communication styles, technology needs, professional development preferences, workplace expectations, compensation and benefits needs, desired leadership styles and the effectiveness of reward and recognition