What different generations can learn from each other in the workplace
By bringing all these different perspectives together, we can really start to understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
PAUL NG10 Feb 2025 02:00pm
Older generations often praise Gen Z for bringing a breath of fresh air to the workplace. Photo: Canva
It's a really interesting mix, and sometimes there can be some pretty big differences in how we all see things — how we work, what's important to us, and what we think the future holds.
We often hear members of older generations sharing their thoughts, but it's also important to hear directly from their young colleagues. What do they think about work? How do they like to collaborate? What kind of future do they envision?
By bringing all these different perspectives together, we can really start to understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
FRESH IDEAS AND TECH SAVVINESS
Older generations often praise Gen Z for bringing a breath of fresh air to the workplace. Members of this generation, raised in a world where the internet was always around, are incredibly tech-savvy. They pick up new tools and platforms like it's nothing, making them superstars in industries that are always changing.
This ability to think outside the box and question the way things have always been done is something many older workers admire, even if it sometimes feels like they're rocking the boat a little.
What really sets Gen Z apart is their focus on purpose and authenticity. Unlike past generations who treasured job security or climbing the corporate ladder, Gen Z wants to make a real difference.
They want to work for companies that share their values and make a positive impact on the world.
WORK ETHIC AND COMMUNICATION STYLES
No generation is perfect, and Gen Z definitely gets its fair share of criticism. One common complaint from older workers is that Zoomers can sometimes seem a bit "entitled" or "lazy." But this often comes from a misunderstanding of how things are different for this generation.
For example, Gen Z really values work-life balance and mental health. They're not afraid to say "no" or set boundaries, which is great, but it can sometimes feel like they're not willing to go the extra mile when the team needs it.
Communication styles can also cause some friction. Older generations often prefer face-to-face chats or phone calls, while Gen Z is more comfortable with texting, group chats, or email. This can lead to misunderstandings, with older workers feeling like Gen Z is "impersonal" or "detached".
IT'S ALL ABOUT PERSPECTIVE
The truth is, a lot of the tension between older generations and Gen Z comes from simply not understanding each other. We all have different life experiences that shape how we see the world and how we work. What one generation sees as a flaw, another might see as a strength.
For example, Gen Z really cares about mental health and having a good work-life balance. It's not about being lazy — it's about creating a workplace where you can thrive and be happy.
At the end of the day, the future of work isn't about one generation "winning." It's about creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, understood, and supported to succeed.
How well do you connect with your colleagues who are from different generations? Take our quiz to find out!
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