Today’s business success depends on creating a corporate culture that actively and consistently demonstrates respect and inclusion for its diverse employee population. It is critically important for leaders to understand the impact of a multi-generational workforce.
This series presents information about generational differences in the workplace and how to lead accordingly.
Part Three: Workplace Traits and Keys to Success: Matures & Boomers
- Matures / The Greatest Generation (b.1922-45)
- Baby Boomers (b.1946-64)
- Generation X (b. 1965-80)
- Generation Y / Millennials (b. 1980-2000)
Matures and Boomers share workplace behaviors and traits. They are very loyal and hard-working employees, planning to stay with the same employer for the long haul. They like structure and are respectful of the organizational hierarchy. While they are generally accepting of authority in the workplace, they may resent younger supervisors with less experience.
The keys to success for leaders engaging with these groups do differ, however.
When introducing new ideas and change to Matures, it will be better received if accompanied by testimonials from trusted experts and authorities. Instead of highlighting the uniqueness of a new idea, emphasize a similar approach you’ve seen work in the past. It is also important to recognize and appreciate the individual contributors for their effort.
Boomers greatly value their time so show them how new ideas or processes will help them use it more wisely. This group enjoys competition and “the win,” especially for the team. Be sure to encourage and recognize individual excellence while showing how it contributes to overall success. Leaders should also follow-up with this group regularly, taking care to listen well.
These generational differences do not only apply to direct team members. Keep these preferences in mind when working with peers, leaders from other business units and even when presenting to an audience. Understanding how each generation views its role in the workplace, what drives their work ethic, and how they like to receive new new information and feedback is essential to positive and useful communication.
Do you see other commonalities across your Mature generation workers or your Baby Boomer team members? What challenges have you experienced and how did you overcome them?
Below is the rest of this Success Series’ topics. Be sure to check back each week or subscribe here to have new posts delivered to your inbox.
Part One: What’s A Generation and What Does A Leader Need to Remember?
Part Two: Life Events, Characteristics and Values of Each Workplace Generation
Part Four: Workplace Traits and Keys to Success: Gen X and Millennials (coming May 28)
Can I help? If you want to have a conversation about leading your multi-generational workforce, click here to send me an email. I’d love to chat! -El
Photo credit: Generation by Knoll, Creative Commons License
