Generation Gap at Workplace
The issue of increasing generation gap in the workplace has been under the scrutiny of
human resource professionals and experts worldwide. It has been observed that most of the
employers are now seeking young and single people in order to avoid paying high salaries and to
compensate for medical benefits of their families. However, there is another side to this problem.
Employers feel that the problem with hiring young people often translates into many work
related issues. For instance, these people have a less professional attitude and have little desire to
learn or to compete. The concept of growing age polarization is increasingly emerging as a
problem for policy makers who feel that there are cases where the younger generation has to
make sacrifices for the older ones in lieu of a booming population.
Today we have more than four different and diverse generations who work together in a
single environment or workplace. The prevalence of conflicts is therefore very common. These
four generations are classified as:
Silent (Adaptive)
Baby Boomer (Idealist)
Generation X (Reactive)
Generation Y (Civic)
Despite a common belief regarding this generational gap, not many scientists and
behavioral experts agree to the same. Many researchers are of the view that the younger
generation is particularly impressionable in the early stages of their careers. In addition, while
many people believe that the core personality of an individual remains more or less the same;
these characteristics and attitudes can easily be altered in the later stages of life. This is where the
role of organizational culture and training and development comes into play. In addition there is
no evidence to support the assumption that a particular generation will witness the same
experiences or react in a similar manner when exposed to issues related to society, race or
ethnicity.
Despite the fact that intergenerational workforces are employed in a particular
organization, the concept of generation gap is now decreasing. In current times where businesses
are competing in a global environment, the benefits reaped by a diverse workforce are many. We
see individuals belonging to different generations and cultures work hand in hand in an
organization and also learn from each other. The problems of generation gap are therefore minor
as compared to the benefits.
It has been observed that the most common clashes that occur between generations at
workplaces are due to issues such as compensation, language, etiquettes and dress codes. The
only solution to such a problem is to hire managers who are open to the views and
recommendations made by other generations in order to highlight the best solutions. In addition,
the management also needs to encourage open discussion in regards to various issues and build
bond within teams. Proper coaching and knowledgeable management is the best way to deal with
workplace diversity and to resolve issues related to generation gaps.
http://www.researchomatic.com/The-Effect-Of-Generation-Differences-On-ProductivityAnd-Workplace-Communication-61388.html