Generations in the Workplace: Showing Respect to All Ages

It is already intimidating when you begin your first job out of college, compounded with the likelihood that you will work with many people who are older than you. You may be the youngest person in the room, or at the table!  

For most of your life, you have taken direction, instruction and guidance from people who are older than you, such as parents, coaches, teachers, mentors, and supervisors. You now have come to a stage in your life where you will work for, alongside, or even supervise colleagues who could be much older than you. Can you expect to notice a few generational difficulties?  

AgCareers.com asked their social media followers, and 76% said they had experienced a conflict in the workplace due to generational differences. Most people will experience generational differences at work a few times during their lifetime.  

PERSONAL EXPERIENCES 

“Being younger in the workplace is an interesting thing; this was really something that never crossed my mind until I entered the professional world,” said Clara Boles, AgCareers.com Digital Marketing Coordinator and Gen Z member. 

Just because you may experience a generational difference in the workplace does not always mean that  is bad or will cause conflict. “When I first came into my role, I was more naive; when I received feedback from older colleagues, I automatically made those changes even if they were not from my supervisor, Boles explained. “Being in my role for over two years now, I listen to feedback but have the confidence to ask questions.”   

Boles added, “I would also imagine it would be odd working alongside someone who is or could be the age of your children; it would feel natural to have some sort of authority over them. “   

As a Gen Xer and mother of three, Bonnie Johnson, AgCareers.com Marketing & Communications Manager, said, “I think Clara’s comments are a bit humorous since I am the same age as her mother, even though I don’t like to think of myself as old!”   

Johnson added, “It is intriguing though because I was in a similar situation when I started my first job out of college, my supervisor, my primary colleague, and many coworkers were the same age as my mom and dad.”  

Even though it may not always be effortless, thinking about the person, skills, and experience they can share with you is way more productive than focusing on their age or generation. Johnson noted, “I had a fabulous working relationship with my older colleagues, but often in my mind, I compared them to what my parents would think and do; hopefully I didn’t verbalize that too much.” 

YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE 

Traditionally people were taught to “respect their elders” and not to question age and the authority that often came with it. While everyone deserves respect, the workplace has evolved in many ways to allow everyone to have a seat at the table, with their voices heard.   

A LOOK AT THE GENERATIONS 

Traditionalists: Born 1928-1945  

This generation may not be in the full-time workforce anymore but that doesn’t mean they are not “hard at work.” Traditionalists are said to value hard work. They also find importance in rules of order, respect for authority, and direction.

Boomers: Born 1946-1964 

This generation is in the later years of their work life. While some are deep in their careers, the older of this generation may be retired or seeking to retire soon. Boomers are fearless of long work hours and have a strong work ethic and commitment.  

Gen X: Born 1965-1980 

Generation X is in the midst of their work life, they value work/life balance and are masters at finding efficient ways to accomplish tasks. We can describe Gen X as self-reliant & independent.   

Gen Y: Born 1981-1996 

We also know Gen Y as the “Millennials.” Gen Y is often described as confident and tech-savvy. They seek constant feedback because they have a curious, goal-orientated entrepreneurial spirit.  You will find this generation comfortable with social media.   

Gen Z: Born 1997–2012 

As a student or new graduate, you are most likely to be a member of Gen Z. These people will be the youngest on your teams. We describe Generation Z as the most digitized generation, as they have grown up with the internet. This generation values flexibility and collaboration.   

GENERATIONAL DIFFERENCES WE SEE TODAY 

Using the chart above, you can see that at least four and maybe even five generations are still in the workplace, which also means they are working together. We provide these generational descriptions as a guideline for typical characteristics you may experience but discourage you from labeling people by their generation or expectations for their age group. You may be surprised to even learn a few technology tricks from older generations, and younger generations may teach unconventional organization or teamwork methods to accomplish goals.   

WORKING TOGETHER IS VITAL 

Of course, there will always be some differences, but how we come together, strengthen our differences, and work on a common goal is what matters. A good rule of thumb is to always treat others the way you would want to be treated; sometimes that is easier said than done. Some other tips we have:   

“When I first started my job at AgCareers.com, coming right out of college I felt tempted to take the back seat, thinking no one would want to listen to the youngest in the room,” said Boles. “That feeling certainly did not last long; my colleagues quickly encouraged me to speak up, explaining that I brought a new fresh perspective to the team, that my ideas were unique and needed to be heard,” added Boles.  

To navigate generational differences in the work place and maybe even a bit of generation conflict, our simple suggestion is respect. Demonstrate respect and receive it in return. Seek to understand and then share your insights and fabulous ideas! You can and will have valuable input for your employer. Your input is essential for a fresh perspective.