F E AT U R E
OPINION
6 key facts
about the multigenerational workforce in 2021 Drawing on insights from her book Reframing Generational Stereotypes, author and global thought leader Rachele Focardi explains why generational diversity and inclusion is quickly becoming the hottest item on the agendas of CEOs and CHROs.
22
HRM ASIA.COM
FACT 1: The future depends on intergenerational collaboration
FACT 2: Stereotypes need to be reframed, not dismissed
At the rapid rate of change our society is undergoing, organisations need to quickly and continuously adapt. Alongside technology, diversity and inclusion will play a major part in their transformation journey, as without it, creativity and innovation will suffer. Generational diversity is diversity. While generational differences are often overlooked, buried under the sand, or simply ignored, they will now play a major part in either stagnating progress of catalysing change. Our world is in desperate need of both the experience and knowledge of older generations, and the energy and social mindedness of today’s youth. The pivotal role in turning the current humanitarian crisis into an opportunity will be played by the new generations working hand-in-hand with the older generations to charge a more positive trajectory and solve the many interconnected problems we will increasingly be facing.
There are a rising number of articles claiming “there is no such thing as generational diversity” or “generational differences are not real,” and instead reinforce that “people are people” and it is wrong to group us under a generational umbrella. While it is true that we are all unique individuals and should not be victims of bias, it is also undoubtably true that the context we are born and raised in shapes us. Stereotypes are important. They represent behavioural archetypes that cluster people together, and openly acknowledging and pondering on them — instead of becoming defensive — can do wonders in helping people from different age groups become more lenient, understanding and nonjudgemental, but also more self-aware, considerate and sensible in the way they interact with one another. Acknowledging and embracing differences is the only way to harness
FEBRUARY-MARCH 2021
