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Generational Gap – Can It Be Curbed?
In today’s times, the differences between the generations have become evidently vast. This generational
gap makes it difficult for us to not only relate with each other but also communicate effectively. It
comes as no surprise that you do not need a magnifying glass to see through the prevalence of this
problem, as it has gotten deeply ingrained in both our personal and professional lives. Keeping in mind
the problems that arise due to generational gap have been present in every era. However, the
pervasiveness of technology as well as the shift of the century have created a major gap that sometimes
seems impossible to bridge. These issues have infiltrated the workplace, putting a question mark on age
diversity.
Productivity and effectiveness of work is compromised when generational gap gives way to new
problems every day. It is significant that the older band of employees display openness to new ideas
from the younger employees. Similarly, it is equally important the younger band of employees display
utmost respect and acknowledge their experience that has allowed the organization to thrive.
There are ways in which Generational Gap can be approached to ensure it does not affect work
productivity:
Effective Communication for Generational Gap:
Communication is the key to building good relationships, be it with your family or your colleagues. It
opens up ways to solving issues right when they start to bud their heads out. It is a known fact that lack
of communication leads to a minor problem turning into a big fuss! Similar is the case with workplace
problems. Often times, due to generational gap, employees are unable to effectively communicate with
each other. In turn, this builds up the tension between them as unrealistic expectations are set and
conflicts occur. It is also very important to consider the communication method of the employees, as
each generation has their own preferred way which they rely upon. Therefore, it is essential for smooth
running of the organization that each piece of the puzzle is taught to communicate their way out of
problems.
Embracing Generational Gap Differences:
Lack of awareness of the differences between styles of conduct is one of the main reasons why
problems occur in the first place. Both the younger and the older generation is clueless about why the
other behaves in a certain manner, and this creates unnecessary misunderstandings. To curb the
differences, one measure that can be taken is introducing intervention programs and workshops in the
organization. These methods can be used to educate both the employers and employees on
generational differences and making them accustomed to each other’s ways.
Shedding Light on the Similarities:
As important as embracing differences is, it is equally necessary that the main focus remains on the
similarities that bind them together. These similarities may not come from their generational
background as much as they come from keeping the company vision aligned. To do so, the weight lies on
the shoulders of the founders to make sure their employees, both old and young, remember what the
organization stands for. This is very crucial to ensure productivity is not at stake and work flow is not
disturbed because of conflicts between the employees. They must be able to keep aside their personal
vendettas and look at the bigger picture, that is to make the organization prosper.
To put it into perspective, it is the responsibility of each one of us to acknowledge that generational gap
does exist. Not only this, but it is also possible to minimize the effects of this gap that may sometimes
seep through in the workplace.