Workforce Trends
If all this resonates with you,
chances are you’re a sandwich
manager. As the generations
continue to evolve through
the workplace, more and more
managers are finding themselves
balancing the expectations and
behaviours of those at both ends
of their work lives. Without a
set of tactics for negotiating
these differences, this bifurcated
workforce can add a level of stress,
not to mention prematurely gray
hair, to your existence. So how do
you cope, or even use this situation
to your advantage? Here are a few
ideas and illustrations:
As the generations continue to evolve
through the workplace, more and more
managers are finding themselves balancing
the expectations and behaviours of those at
both ends of their work lives.
20
November 2014
Take stock. When Michael
assumed his role as warehouse
manager, he had no idea that his
staff would range in age from 18
to 72. His first cross-generational
challenge turned out to be a couple
of long-timers complaining about
adolescents necking in the back
corners of the building. After this,
and several other comments about
work ethic, mobile distractions
and ‘old-farts’ who move too
slow, he decided to take some
time and examine the situation in
perspective.
Performance issues weren’t
really the problem. It was the
heartburn around daily insinuations,
snide comments and hurt feelings,
not unlike those at a dinner for
the extended family. Once he had
a handle on the real issues, he was
able to act in ways that addressed
everyone’s concerns. He began
with an emphasis on tolerance and
patience for others.
Identify the challenge to others.
When she took charge, Stephanie
was surprised by the disconnect
between the age groups in her
call centre. Even more so, she
felt a little betrayed by the lack
of understanding and empathy,
even from her supervisors. After
one particularly stressful day of
‘young versus old,’ she called her