Gen up on generations

When you understand what makes different generations tick, you can use this to help your business thrive, says Lisa Duston.

With people now working for longer, many businesses are faced with the challenge of understanding and managing four generations in the workplace: Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials and Gen Z. Explains a lot, right?

All have different values, work habits, and expectations of themselves, their colleagues, and management. Let’s take a quick look: Baby Boomers – Born 1946-1964* Grew up in a time of economic prosperity and tend to prioritise their work life over their private life. They prefer human contact over technology. They are optimistic, competitive and workaholics. Generation X – Born 1965-1980 Unlike baby boomers, they don’t live to work, and put a lot of emphasis on work-life balance. They are independent, work well when challenged, are flexible and adaptable. Millennials – Born 1981-1996 Rely heavily on technology. They are very adaptable, flexible and ambitious, and have a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Gen Z (Zoomers) – Born 1997-2012 Also known as post-millennials, they are even more tech-savvy and multicultural than millennials. Their working habits are yet to be established over time, but we know they are eager to earn money and change the world.

You can use the multi-generational culture to benefit your business. You have a huge pool of knowledge, information and experience. Managed right, this could do great things! Ask Gen Z to help the Baby Boomers in the digital realm. The Xers can guide their younger colleagues in personal communication. Encourage this skill sharing and make sure everything is done respectfully.

Regardless of mutual differences, all employees can unite in one thing—ensuring the company’s success. Only when they work together can this goal be achieved.

* Dates are approximate.

Lisa Duston from the Master Plumbers HR team is available to Master Plumbers members to discuss any employee situation. Contact Lisa on 021 245 1704 or email lduston@masterplumbers.org.nz

KEREAMA CARMODY

Master Plumbers Wellbeing Guy

CULTURE OF RESPECT

As Lisa Duston explains above, employers can now find themselves with four different generations in the workplace.

This may create tensions because people have different values, priorities and work ethics. For example, willingness to adopt new technologies can vary from generation to generation.

So how do we overcome these challenges?

Creating a respectful company culture where people feel included, understood and welcome is essential. Set expectations from day one and check in with your staff that the culture you are trying to create is positively influencing everyone’s wellbeing at work.

Some practical tips to manage generational differences in the workplace:

Ensure every staff member is connected to the purpose of the business, as this instils a sense of common ground

Create opportunities to connect socially as a team, such as shared lunches or group activities that bring people together

Model the company culture through strong leadership that clearly demonstrates the importance of managing mental health and wellbeing

Have an approachable environment where team members feel they can share and talk with each other, so they feel supported and connected.

A culture of respect should lead to a stronger, more resilient team with the same goals in mind.

About the author: Need to talk? Master Plumbers members and their teams can get in touch with registered social worker Kereama Carmody on the 0800 Wellbeing Number during normal business hours. Details in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz (under Wellbeing on Tap).