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Nicole Reardon 
Steff Gelson, journalist for business magazine, CIO, has summed up the generational stereotypes thus: “Gen Y thinks Gen X is a bunch of whiners. Gen X sees Gen Y as arrogant and entitled. And everyone thinks the Baby Boomers are self-absorbed workaholics.”
Unpack the Issues...
The Australian workforce currently houses three generations of employees: baby boomers (~1943-1960), Generation X (born ~1961-1981) and Generation Y (born ~1982>). While many boomers are reaching an age where they would seek to retire, the rising cost of living has meant that many have no choice but to continue working. Consequently, in the current workplace you are likely to find three different generations, not necessarily working in harmony. Dr Teresa Moore is senior lecturer in the School of Learning and Innovation at Central Queensland University. Her research has focused on the changing nature of the contemporary workplace, with particular regards to employees in schools and education. Teaching is one industry where the generational gap is very noticeable. “Present in the current workforce are the baby boomers who are coming up to retirement age, the ‘career changers’ who have retrained, and Gen Y who went straight into teaching after high school and university,” Teresa says. Teresa explains that while all these employees came into the workforce for similar reasons they have different ideas and concepts as to how to approach work tasks as well as different skills with which to achieve them. She says, “Gen Y is different in that they have grown up with a wider range of technology available for them to use and consequently have developed more contemporary skills”. Placing people with different principles, concepts and skills within a close working environment has led to increased tensions and stereotypes in the workplace. While it may appear impossible to overcome this generational gap and its many stereotypes, Teresa assures that some very simple steps may vastly improve the working environment. “It’s all about communication and trust,” she says. “There is a place for both the experience gained from years of practice to meld with the new concepts of the younger generations.” “By sharing ideas we can only create a better work environment.”
Tips for bridging the generation gap For older employees: actively put aside stereotypical views recognise that younger associates may have insights into more contemporary ideas. encourage younger colleageus’ input respect ideas of young colleagues
For younger employees: actively put aside stereotypical views communicate in a polite, respectful manner towards more senior employees recognised and respect that older employees have insights and knowledge developed from years of experience that is useful put forward new ideas and concepts in a manner that is respectful and not forceful
Unpack the Issues...Further reading Discussion points To what extent is a generational gap present in your workplace? What other generational stereotypes are present? Can you think of any further tips to bridge the generational gap within the workplace?
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