HCW Benefits Blog

This is a guest blog post from our HR partner CAI.  CAI is a trusted resource for N.C. employers for HR, compliance and people development.

The United States’ workforce now includes four different generations. Companies should be aware of and understand the characteristics and workplace preferences that make each of the groups unique. Being equipped with this knowledge will assist organizations in keeping employees content, which in turn will help reduce turnover, attract top talent and achieve business success.

Companies should identify the various populations that currently exist at their workplaces. This information will help target the business practices and employee engagement tools that will be most effective and beneficial for their staff.

Below are some of the traits that distinguish each generation:

Each generation values and expects something different from their workplace. Here are a few approaches to use when handling multiple generations:

• Matures and Baby Boomers have spent many years working. Use them as resources for company questions that Gen Xers or Millennials might ask. Matures and Baby Boomers make great mentors to younger staff members, and they can be very helpful when training new staff on company policies, procedures and history.
• Gen Xers appreciate autonomy and independence in the workplace. Work-life balance is also important to this group. Similar to Gen Xers, Millennials enjoy their free time outside of work. Because Millennials are multitaskers with entrepreneurial spirits, a traditional schedule is not always best for them. Offer flexibility in scheduling, such as telecommuting, to please both groups.
• Frequent training opportunities will keep each generation engaged. Encourage Matures and Baby Boomers to offer their younger colleagues career advice through company training or mentorship programs. Have Gen Xers organize training sessions because more responsibility pleases them.
• Gen Xers and Millennials love receiving feedback. To help all employees succeed, make sure positive and constructive feedback is given consistently through the methods of communication that work best for each generation.
• Praise and recognition are appreciated by all. Know how each group likes to be rewarded and proceed appropriately. For example, a Baby Boomer would enjoy a company-wide email highlighting their success, while a personalized email about their hard work will please Millennials.
• No matter the age or length of employment at an organization, all employees should be viewed as valuable staff members. Creating an environment that promotes open communications will help all generations feel appreciated, respected and engaged in their organization. 

For more information on how to manage various generations at your organization, please contact a member of CAI’s Advice and Counsel Team at 919-878-9222 or 336-688-7746.