7. Effects of Multi-Generational Workforce on HRM and Organisational Culture

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Adopted from The North Bay Business Journal (2022)

What is a multigenerational workforce?

A multigenerational workforce consists of individuals spanning various age groups. With the increasing average lifespan, more people opt to continue working past the traditional retirement age. As a result, it's now usual for businesses to have employees from four to five different generations working together.

These groups are,

  1. Silent Generation (Traditionalists) – born 1928-1945
  2. Baby Boomers – born 1946-1964
  3. Generation X – born 1965-1980
  4. Generation Y (Millennials) – born 1981-1996
  5. Generation Z – born 1997-2012

HR leaders ought to incorporate all age demographics into their succession planning and strategic workforce strategies. This inclusive approach helps in identifying effective methods to allure, involve, maintain, and cultivate employees at different points in their lives (Boatman, 2021).

Adopted from Boatman (2021)


Multigenerational workforce challenges on HRM & organisational culture

The composition of workplaces is increasingly characterized by greater ethnic and racial diversity. According to data from Great Place To Work®, Gen Z, or Zoomers, are anticipated to constitute the most diverse workforce yet, with 47% identifying with a non-white ethnic group. Additionally, workplaces now see the collaboration of employees from up to five different generations working alongside each other.

Employees now arrive at work with a broader spectrum of priorities, expectations, and experiences than in the past. Therefore HRM and organisational culture will affected by multigenerational challenges as below (Hastwell, 2023).

Differing Priorities

Employees in various life stages have different needs.

Stereotypes and Assumptions

Just like we avoid stereotyping based on race or gender, the same applies to age and generation.

Miscommunication

Communication methods have evolved, causing misunderstandings.

Us vs. Them Attitudes

Generational gaps can create power dynamics.


How HRM can engage with multigenerational workforce

Effectively handling a diverse workforce spanning multiple generations presents challenges, yet it holds significant value for any organisation. Success lies in devising engagement strategies that connect with employees of various ages. Below are strategies for engaging and managing a workforce comprising different generations (www.get-benefits.com. n.d.; Gates, 2023).

Understand each generation

Use multiple communication channels

Promote knowledge sharing

Prioritize inclusive retention practices

Remove age bias from hiring

Customize benefits with different stages of their life

Be flexible

Figuring out how to effectively oversee a workforce comprising multiple generations presents its difficulties, yet it also offers significant benefits for the organisation. Utilizing diverse age perspectives creates a strong pool of talent that contributes to sustaining the business in the long run with effective organisational culture and human resource management.



References

  1. Boatman, A. (2021). Multigenerational Workforce: Benefits, Challenges, and 9 Best Practices. [online] AIHR. Available at: https://www.aihr.com/blog/multigenerational-workforce/ [Accessed 13 Nov. 2023].

  2. Gates, M. (2023). Challenges of Managing a Multigenerational Workforce - PowerToFly Blog. [online] powertofly.com. Available at: https://powertofly.com/up/challenges-of-managing-a-multigenerational-workforce [Accessed 13 Nov. 2023].

  3. Hastwell, C. (2023). Engaging and Managing a Multigenerational Workforce. [online] Great Place To Work®. Available at: https://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/blog/engaging-and-managing-multigenerational-workforce#:~:text=For%20managers%20of%20multigenerational%20workforces [Accessed 15 Nov. 2023].

  4. The North Bay Business Journal. (2022). Opinion: How to manage a multigenerational workforce. [online] Available at: https://www.northbaybusinessjournal.com/article/industrynews/how-to-manage-a-multigenerational-workforce/ [Accessed 13 Nov. 2023].

  5. www.get-benefits.com. (n.d.). Benefits for a Multigenerational Workforce. [online] Available at: https://www.get-benefits.com/post/benefits-for-a-multigenerational-workforce#:~:text=A%20multigenerational%20workforce%20offers%20numerous [Accessed 13 Nov. 2023].




Comments

  1. Mayumi WicramashingheNovember 18, 2023 at 10:11 PM

    Dear Sudesh, very good post and in this article, comprehensive exploration of the multigenerational workforce adeptly highlights the challenges faced by HRM and organizational culture, insightful strategies to engage and manage diverse age groups effectively.

    ReplyDelete
  2. SudarshaNovember 22, 2023 at 1:43 AM

    Hi Sudesh.
    This informative piece celebrates the richness of a multigenerational workforce, emphasizing the need for inclusive HR strategies. By recognizing diverse needs, promoting understanding, and fostering inclusive practices, organizations can harness the collective strengths of different generations, ensuring sustained success and a vibrant workplace culture.





    ReplyDelete
  3. Mithini Punsara AbeyrathneNovember 25, 2023 at 11:48 PM

    What are the best strategies for effectively managing a multigenerational team?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dammika SudeshNovember 26, 2023 at 6:19 AM

      Dear Mithini, appreciate your query, Understanding diverse perspectives, fostering open communication, and promoting collaboration are key strategies. Embrace flexibility in work styles, offer tailored development opportunities, and encourage mentorship across generations. Recognize and leverage unique strengths while cultivating a culture of respect, empathy, and appreciation for differences to create a consistent, productive team.

      Delete
  4. 23042688prasanna.blogspot.comNovember 27, 2023 at 5:57 AM

    How does HRM ensure effective communication with a multinational workforce, considering language and cultural differences??

    ReplyDelete
  5. S. D. S. K. Kumara (E205009)November 27, 2023 at 8:03 AM

    Further to your article, by recognizing and respecting the unique characteristics of each generational cohort, HRM can foster a workplace culture that values diversity, promotes inclusivity, and maximizes the strengths of a multigenerational workforce.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Dinesh EkanayakeNovember 27, 2023 at 8:24 AM

    Hi Sudesh, Managing a multigenerational workforce, where individuals from different age groups collaborate, presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses. Each generation brings unique perspectives, experiences, and work styles to the table. Effectively navigating these differences can lead to a more inclusive and productive work environment.

    ReplyDelete
  7. RoshanNovember 28, 2023 at 10:13 AM

    Hi Sudesh, yes, it is, strategically critical to engage a multigenerational workforce effectively, and this article provides helpful advice. Crucial tactics include knowing each generation, making the most of a variety of communication channels, encouraging information sharing, and implementing inclusive retention techniques. A thoughtful approach to human resource management is seen in the focus on eliminating age bias in hiring, personalizing benefits, and encouraging flexibility, all of which contribute to a positive and effective work environment.

    ReplyDelete

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