Things You Need to Know

Professionalism

Bridging the Generations Gap

July 01, 2009

Last week, I spoke to a group of mostly women lawyers in Utah about the four generations now found in the workplace. Interestingly, my presentation was a follow-up to a previous conference this same group had conducted focusing on issues regarding women in the workplace. Among the messages that I shared with the group was the following: The issues that professional women have traditionally pushed, in particular work-life balance, are about to become workforce issues, with young male members of the workforce pushing for balance just as hard as their female counterparts.

For the past three years, I’ve conducted presentations on the unique work expectations of each generation. While most audience members quickly grasp the significant differences that exist—many often share their own challenges in bridging the generations gap at work—every once in awhile I encounter someone who thoroughly disputes all notions regarding generational differences.

To those people I offer a study released just this week by the Pew Research Center. According to that group, Americans find themselves increasingly at odds over a large number of social and technological issues. The independent public opinion research group found that almost eight in 10 people believe major differences exist in the points of view among younger and older people. That’s the highest spread since 1969, when 74 percent reported major differences over the Vietnam War and civil and women’s rights.

When asked to identify where younger and older people differ most, 47 percent of respondents saw differences in reactions to social issues and morality. Younger respondents were more likely to report disagreements over lifestyle, views on family, relationships and dating, while older people cited differences in a sense of entitlement. Those in middle-age groups often pointed to a difference in manners.

My own experience in working with all generations in the workplace suggests that while key differences exist, the generations share important core values. To the extent all employees recognize those common values, their ability to bridge the generations gap is significantly enhanced.

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