Fifty-two percent of workers say they are least likely to get along with someone from another generation. This comes from a poll by research and consulting firm, Frank N. Magrid Associates. Why Generations Matter
Not only is this friction acknowledged but it is forecasted to intensify. 62 percent of Gen Z anticipate challenges working with older generations to increase. This is according to Robert Half and Enactus research.
Why does there have to be this conflict between generations in the workforce? What forces are at play to bring out the difficulties relating to each other? Is there anything HR could to stop the problem before it starts or goes too far?
There has always been generational friction as younger workers chafed at being taught by older workers and older workers regarded the young as "whippersnappers" with upstart ideas. In general, the younger workers had to be trained by senior, experienced workers who would show them the ropes.
It is human nature to stay in your comfort zone. It is easier to herd together with others who are similar. It may seem like too much work to communicate with someone who wants an "email trail" vs. a quick text.
The traditional training model has been turned upside down. Millenials and Generation Z are cluing in older workers on how to use apps and technology systems they have been using since childhood. Friction results when senior workers get "schooled" about technology from newbies. This reversed knowledge transfer needs to be handled sensitively in a way that allows the organization to utilize tech skills, encourages their adoption by older workers and finds a way to show all generations that their contributions are valued.
There should be an urgency by management to have a culture that embraces the contributions of all employees irrespective of generations. HR has a role in building bridges between generations, offering training in respect and teamwork. Active management in acknowledging the strengths all ages bring to the table and developing those strengths for the competitive advantage of the organization will position
Insist that everyone bring their best selves to work and learn get along and adapt to new technology as well as working with every age. There are actual costs to companies that do not have ways to deal with the conflict. War of generations results in lost productivity
