Healthy leadership in intergenerational coexistence
Coexistence between generations is a reality in the company. This context poses a new challenge for the leader, who must manage teams with different needs, but with the same objective, that of ensuring inclusion and intergenerational learning. In this article we will talk about leadership and coexistence between generations.
What is intergenerational coexistence?
Today, intergenerational coexistence is an issue of concern for managers as they are responsible for managing people from at least four different generations: baby boomers, generation X, millennials and generation Z. This makes teams more challenging to manage. This makes work teams increasingly diverse, as each generation has its own strengths, values and ways of working. In this context of coexistence between different generations, it is important for leaders to foster an environment in which all these differences are integrated and valued.
Among other things, intergenerational coexistence is essential for making the most of the potential of each generation and for retaining talent, as it ensures, to a greater extent, continuity and long-term success. We can therefore say that strategic management of human capital requires taking into account intergenerational coexistence.
Types of generations and characteristics
Generations in the world of work include baby boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), generation X (born between 1965 and 1980), millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) and generation Z (born from 1997 onwards). Each generation has its own characteristics, priorities and needs:
- Baby boomers are characterised by their work ethic and loyalty to the company. They seek stability and job security.
- Generation X is characterised by independence and a desire for work-life balance. They are looking for flexibility and freedom at work.
Generally speaking, these two generations have the greatest presence in leadership and decision-making positions.
- Millennials are characterised by their focus on diversity, inclusion and sustainability. They seek purpose and meaning in their work.
- Generation Z is noted for their ability with technology and their desire to work in a collaborative and inclusive environment. They seek opportunities for growth and development.
This coexistence between different generations, coupled with their specific needs, presents us with the clear challenge of coexisting with a flexible leadership model, and above all a healthy leadership model, which takes into account the specific requirements of each of these generations.
How do the generations influence the company?
The working relationship between generations can be complicated due to differences in values, priorities and ways of working. This can lead to conflicts and disconnections, especially in a context where there is strong pressure for promotion and access to resources.
In addition, intergenerational prejudices and stereotypes can also be an obstacle to effective teamwork and collaboration. This can have a negative impact on company culture and overall productivity.
It is therefore important that company leaders work to foster an environment of intergenerational inclusion and collaboration, and to effectively address and resolve conflicts. Healthy intergenerational coexistence is essential to ensure the well-being of teams.
Intergenerational Living Together in Organisations
Intergenerational coexistence in the workplace presents a number of challenges, such as the generation gap, prejudices and stereotypes, and differences in values and priorities. In addition, new technologies and globalisation are accelerating the pace of change and making intergenerational adaptation and integration more difficult.
Another major challenge is to ensure an equitable distribution of resources and opportunities between different generations. For this reason, leaders must work to foster an inclusive work environment that promotes and facilitates intergenerational learning.
5 benefits of generational coexistence in the workplace
Successful generational coexistence in companies can bring the following benefits:
- Reduce the generation gap: differences in values, priorities and ways of working can lead to conflicts and disconnections between different generations.
- Eliminate, or at least reduce, prejudices and stereotypes: which can be an obstacle to effective teamwork and collaboration. Furthermore, these prejudices and stereotypes can increase the occurrence of conflict between co-workers.
- Adapting to differences in technology: new technologies and globalisation are accelerating the pace of change and can make adaptation and intergenerational integration difficult.
- Equality of resources and opportunities: It is important to ensure an equitable distribution of resources and opportunities between the different generations.
- Taking advantage of junior profiles: junior profiles can be a challenge for companies due to their lack of experience and knowledge, but they can also be an opportunity to introduce new knowledge and perspectives.
How to promote intergenerational coexistence in companies?
Enhancing intergenerational coexistence in companies is crucial to improve productivity, innovation and employee well-being. Some strategies to achieve this include:
- Training programmes on intergenerational coexistence: specific training and awareness programmes on intergenerational coexistence can help reduce prejudice and foster understanding and respect between different generations.
- Leadership skills: Among the main skills of a healthy and inclusive leader, communication is one of the most important. This is a key element in ensuring intergenerational coexistence. It is important to establish clear channels of communication and promote active listening and feedback.
- Inclusion and diversity: diversity of age, culture and experience is a source of wealth for companies. Therefore, ensuring an inclusive environment and valuing differences is important in teams.
- Harnessing multigenerational talent: integrating multigenerational talent is an opportunity to tap into the experience and knowledge of all generations and to foster intergenerational learning.
- Flexibility policies: flexible work policies, such as teleworking or flexible working hours, can help to accommodate the needs of different generations and foster a more balanced and healthy work environment.
In short, to ensure successful generational coexistence, it is important to foster understanding and respect between different generations, promote an inclusive culture and value multigenerational talent. Communication and flexibility are key to achieving a harmonious and productive work environment.
