By Caroline Rioux
One of the most common challenges that surface in the workplace today is generational conflict. Since getting older is an inevitable part of life, the different age groups that work in an organization can spark several issues stemming from other work and life experiences. More senior employees have often worked for the company for several years, if not their entire careers. While the younger employees are usually just beginning their position with the business. The divergent life stages and years of experience translate into conflicting views about job commitment, work hours, and work in general. Before long, the contrasting generational values and beliefs spark minor disagreements that swiftly become major conflicts threatening respect, unity, and company culture.
The recent pandemic has only increased the rift between generations. The stress and isolation that everyone experienced motivated young employees to reflect on what matters most in their life. So, they speak openly about their desire to create more harmony between work and life and boldly request flexibility from their superiors. Their managers do not understand the necessity for balance because they have devoted their lives to the organization. Therefore, the younger worker’s need for excessive time off or remote work flexibility is offensive to them. The older employees’ frustration evolves into attacks against the young personnel for not being devoted to an organization that affords them their livelihood. The clash of differing experiences is all it takes to trigger a serious conflict that can tear an organization apart. However, it is possible to restore company unity by creating a shared experience that inspires everyone to understand and appreciate diverse backgrounds.
I have successfully helped companies cultivate crucial awareness and understanding between different generations by creating committees where experiences are shared. The group comprises employees of different ages and varying years with the organization. Once assembled, I facilitate a safe and respectful discussion where everyone shares their story, values, thoughts on commitment, and overall view of work. After everyone speaks, we develop a collective agreement considering the different experiences, principles, and objectives. The intent is to foster generational balance where everyone feels respected, appreciated, and understood.
Once someone shares their story, others see beyond their preconceived notions and begin to see the experiences of others differently. Creating a safe space where everyone can express themselves cultivates crucial empathy and awareness of others they might have previously judged. Every employee is unique and has a perspective and values that can differ from ours. However, no matter how dissimilar we believe we are, we must always respect the person. The best way to cultivate respect and empathy is to set aside time to create a safe space where people can share so others understand how they feel.
Organization leaders often say they do not have the time, resources, or buy-in from the employees to do this work. However, this work is the key to overcoming generational conflicts. Allowing the riffs to mature ultimately costs a business valuable time, money, and talent. Employees are humans, not robots, that need to feel connected to others they collaborate with for the organization to maintain a healthy working environment. Prioritizing committee meetings communicates that your company understands the conflict, wants its employees heard, and actively pursues a collective and agreeable solution. Creating ongoing space and time to address issues meaningfully also shows your employees that you are establishing a process that can address future problems that may arise. Proactive action does not create lasting change without a long-term strategy. When we take the time to make space to remove interpersonal barriers, we strengthen human connections that can overcome any challenge.
Please contact EVOCrh to learn how we can help resolve generational conflict in your organization.
