It’s no secret that every generation has its own unique set of values and beliefs. This can sometimes lead to conflict in the workplace, as differing age groups struggle to understand each other. With the rising employment rate of older workers in Singapore climbing to 28.5% in 2020 from 27.6% in 2019 and the influx of young workers joining the workforce yearly, this issue looks set to persist further.
So, if you are struggling to manage different generations in your office, don’t worry – you are not alone. As leading leadership management training specialists in Singapore, this is a common question that @ASK Training receives from our clients in our leadership and management training courses. In this article, we use our experience and expertise to discuss some tips for managing these groups effectively. Read on to learn how to start creating a more harmonious and productive work environment for all of your employees.
1. Facilitate Opportunities For Collaboration
Naturally, employees tend to lean towards colleagues of a similar age profile in their interactions. That is why companies have to be intentional in facilitating opportunities for collaboration between different generations to enable them to see the value in learning from each other.
Being deliberate to create chances to build rapport and understand each other better through cross-generational mentoring is the best way to make sure that different generations can learn from each other. Through assigning new hires a mentor from a differing age group as them, you are not only able to teach newcomers about what it takes for this job but also provide them with knowledge and experience they might not get elsewhere. Older employees’ wealth of experience stand them in good stead to share little-known industry knowledge while younger staff may be able to share technology hacks that increase the efficiency of their work.
Jointly completing tasks is another great way for different generations of workers to learn how to work together. When assigned projects or team-building activities come up on your team, don’t hesitate to mix up the ages within the group by including members who have more experience too. It will reduce bias and benefit everyone involved with the blend of skill sets from various age groups.
If you want your employees to get along, then it’s important that they spend time outside of work. A great way for them to do this is by going out after-hours for dinners or doing team-building activities where everyone has fun with one another as individuals rather than just seeing each other through the lens of different generations.
2. Place Them In Their Strengths & Train Them To Overcome Their Weaknesses
As each generation has its own unique set of strengths, skills and knowledge, it’s important to make sure everyone works on tasks they are equipped to handle in order for them to stay engaged at work. However, the workplace is a dynamic environment where demands and technology are constantly evolving. Managers need an understanding about how different age groups might struggle with obstacles particular to their demographic, so look out if you see anything like this happening. Trainings and meetings should be held regularly too to keep all staff informed not just about new technologies or industry trends but about best practices too.
3. Flexibility Is Key
To effectively manage many different generations in your office, it is essential to consider each employee’s life phase. Don’t pursue a one-size-fits-all approach for all your workers and expect them to be suitable for similar work hours, tasks or experiences. For example, younger workers may have lesser obligations, so they may be good choices for opportunities like conferences, workshops and other new experiences. On the flip side, older staff probably have family responsibilities to handle, so allow them to have options for flexible working hours.
Manage Different Generations Effectively With @ASK Training
Managing employees of different generations can be a challenge, but it’s one that’s worth taking on. With the right tools and knowledge, you can successfully navigate the challenges and reap the benefits of having a diverse team. If you are interested in learning more about how to manage differing age groups effectively, equip your team with the soft skills to handle working relationships with multi-generational people through a supervisor course in Singapore. Our leadership and people management course will help you develop the skills you and your management team need to lead a successful team that spans multiple generations.
We also provide leadership training in other aspects, such as presentation skills, communication management, problem solving skills and more. If you’re considering other forms of training, here are some of our recommended courses:
- Speaking and Presenting with Confidence Training Course
- Colored Brain: Gateway to Improving Communication Skills at the Workplace
- Problem Solving with Python Coding
Contact @ASK Training for more enquiries and sign up for our courses today.