subject: Preventing Disastrous Generational Conflict in the Workplace [print this page] Preventing Disastrous Generational Conflict in the Workplace
Preventing Disastrous Generational Conflict in the Workplace
By Alisa Blum, MSW
With four generations in the workplace, each with its own values, work styles and communication preferences, it's no wonder generational conflict can undermine the ability of employees to work together and effectively accomplish their work. Generational conflict in the workplace can range from minor misunderstandings to unproductive teams to accusations of age bias. Therefore, it is imperative to prevent generational conflict so that employees' work productively together and the risk of age discrimination lawsuits are diminished.
Generational conflict can be prevented by:Focusing on the strengths each generation brings to the workplace and assigning tasks based on these strengths. Gen X'ers often excel at helping to create increased efficiency. Baby Boomers can use their tendency to explore all aspects of a situation to complete thorough research. Traditionalists are often very good at tapping into their vast work experience to document best practices. Millenials can use their innovative technological savvy to discover new ways your organization can better use social media.Educating managers to develop generation-specific strategies. A Gen X manager who makes changes in the office without developing a trusting relationship with Traditionalist and Boomer employees will run the risk of alienating these employees. A Boomer manager who doesn't understand that younger employees have a different view of where and when work gets done will experience conflict with these employees if there is not an understanding of this work style.Giving the message to your workforce that differences are neither good nor bad. People tend to make value judgments when they encounter behavior that is different than they are accustom. Employees need to learn to delay the knee jerk reaction to make negative judgments about others or take another person's behavior personally when they encounter employees with work styles and values that are different than their own.Preventing generational conflict is not easy. But we can create a more harmonious multigenerational workforce with raised awareness and a genuine commitment to work effectively together.2010, Alisa Blum, Alisa Blum & Associates, All Rights Reservedhttp://www.articlesbase.com/corporate-articles/preventing-disastrous-generational-conflict-in-the-workplace-3644364.html
