Workplace dynamics changing with Millennials and Gen Z

Over the last 50 years, the workforce has welcomed “Baby Boomers”, “Gen X,” “Gen Y” and more recently “Millennials”.
However, times are changing and with many Millennials now approaching their mid-30’s and taking on leadership positions, the attention is turning to the next age group to enter the work force – “Gen  Z”.

Gen X, Baby boomers, Millennials, Gen Z, whom do you identify with? While we are looking for some common ground here, there’s no denying that each set brings their own strengths, in a work scenario.

In a recent chat with our community, we discussed how work has evolved with a blend of different generations working together.

Upscaling work with the help of technology

Ease of working is probably the first point that comes to mind when we think – How has technology impacted our work? And the answer is very simple. Technology breaks down complex tasks into very simple targets. Communication and networking have become easy. Project collaboration, presentations, discussions, etc all of it has transferred to laptop displays and mobile screens – especially after the pandemic. Google and zoom meetings have increased.  Ranjini and Chandresh talk about their choice of tech that’s made work smooth for their team.

Innovation has continually transformed how employees in every profession carry out their tasks. Technological progress has led to a better work environment since the industrial era. Efficiency has increased tremendously, and the virtual team is now simpler than ever.

While millennials have seen the best of both worlds- tech and before tech, the Gen Z were born into tech- the first ever generation to know the world without the internet.

A distinction between both the worlds is important to strike the perfect balance.

Quirks of different generations

While Millennials are flexible and open to innovative ideas at work, Gen Z are more fixed on their ways, or ‘sorted.’

Millennials feel they need to learn to say no more and take a stand, like the Gen Zs do. With the Gen Z entering the work force we also see a lot of slangs in communication becoming the new trend.

The differences aside, a cross generational team has more advantages than we can imagine. The cross pollination gives us an interesting mix of ideas, innovations and experiences to work with.

Why are millennials and Gen Z so different from each other?

Every generation is a product of their parents. While the millennials often hold stability as a strong factor and have to earn money on the get go, the Gen Z are more privileged, have more exposure, options and the tenacity to play the long-term work game.

Celebrating diversity and staying up to date

Only when we have conversations will we be able to create an environment where all thrive. Listening and understanding is a skill we must never underestimate. Only one generation’s 100% view will not work. Collaboration and co-creation are the way forward.

Adapting our engagement strategy in a way that is inclusive of all generations’ voices will help us reach our objective with more ease.

Aditi puts it well, explaining how while staying up to date with tech is something important, health, stability, empathy and sustainability is equally important.

While different generations come together to work, different perspectives urge us to go to the drawing board, rethink and reevaluate what productivity, success, flexibility and several other aspects of work could evolve into, whilst keeping in mind business exigencies and basic work ethics.

Have a wonderful time with your colleagues this week!

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