Generation Y or young workers can as well supervise the
Generation X or the older generation or both the old and younger
generations workers carry out same duties at the same place of work.These phenomena are common in many organizations,and especially those that retain their workers till retirement age.
Often, whenever a new
employee meets an older one,the latter proudly introduce themselves and quickly add that they have worked for the organizations for so many years!As a result of more boomers staying in the work force while millions of
generation Y enters it,the chances of boomers having a younger boss or colleague are increasing.However,the above state of affairs is not always blissful.More often than not,it brings with it the challenges,benefits and handy lessons for the older generation workers.
Challenges faced by generation X workers ;
Many experts agree that self esteem is one of the biggest challenges baby boomers face when working with younger co-workers."it's hard on the ego for baby boomers to have a younger boss",says Hassler,a life coach.They are taught that seniority comes with age therefore answering to someone of their child's age,they do not know how to relate to or connect with their boss or co-worker which makes them feel more separate.Another problem that keeps older employees from their younger generation is their tendency to believe that they have all answers.They want to tell people how to do things rather than asking how.Where a younger and lesser experienced employee is paid more or chosen for a senior position the older generation does not appreciate.Additionally,generation Y has a sense of urgency and this presents a problem to older colleagues.Younger people are always looking at the next challenge before finishing the current one,resisting and sometimes sulking when their ideas are not accepted.To effectively deal with working with the younger generation within the work environment,the older workers may need to learn how to deal with the situation despite the challenges they face while working alongside them.It is only then the both the employee and the company can benefit more.
Some of the approaches the older generation can apply to deal with a younger boss or colleague at the work place include;
1.listening:it is important to note that young workers are committed to collaboration and want to be included on decisions and strategies.To bridge the gaps,show them you are willing to invest,improve and understand.
2.Accept and embrace Change:Generation X workers would need to learn to appreciate the younger generation and embrace the change.This phenomenon is taking root in corporations and will be with us for a very long time in future.
3.Help a brother or sister out:help your younger boss find his footing,and he/she is likely to return the favor by giving you the autonomy you want and by including you in the decisions.
4.Keep your"sunny side" up:Accent the positive and eliminate the negative about working with the younger employee.Keep on the sunny side of life.And above all,feel good about yourself,it goes a long way towards improving your health,and helps you deal with the changes associated with working with the younger generation.
5.Use your experience to temper any potential insecurity about having a younger boss:Always remember that you have got a perspective they do not have yet,which benefits both of you.
6.Keep an open and flexible mind:do not assume that because that because they are young they know not.
7.Never let them see you sweat:never show them that you are angry with them.
8Be the employee your boss does not have to manage
9.You have to want to learn new things and look at things differently.
10.Do not assume traditional boss behaviors.
It is imperative to know that when confronted by any change,younger generation workers included,two things are likely to happen:you either change or the change changes you instead!