Mind The Age Gap
Nowadays it isn't unusual to have four generations represented in a workplace, including those nearing retirement, the Baby Boomers, and Generations X and Y, respectively.
It's a diverse group for sure, says Paul Schneider, managing partner of OI Partners in Chicago, and can call for a more collaborative kind of management. But there are some ways to keep everyone happy and productive.
Keeping common goals at the forefront of everyone's mind is key, and this can mean a balancing act for managers. "Managers must distinguish between lively debate and a stalemate and help resolve problems without dampening enthusiasm or disparaging anyone's opinions," says Schneider.
Making everyone feel included is also important and effort must be made to keep an open mind and forget about age brackets. Schneider encourages each generation to mentor the others. It is also important to offer ways for all generations to balance work and home, says Schneider. "For example, employees nearing retirement might want to scale back their hours. Gen Xers with children will seek a job with flexible hours. Offer the option of telecommuting," he says. He points out that all employees value balancing their personal lives, no matter what age they are.
Investing in employees' talents and skills is another good way to level the playing field. Offer older workers Internet courses or executive development opportunities for the younger ones. If smaller problems threaten to turn into bigger issues in overseeing a multi-aged workforce, don't be afraid to hire a executive coach if needed, Schneider advises.
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