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5 Generations in the Workplace: What You Need to Know

The Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z are all mingling in the office these days, and that can present a challenge when it comes to communicating effectively.

Lisa J. Hardman, Senior IT Analyst/Adjunct Faculty, U.S. Government Accountability Office, hosted a session on managing a multi-generational workforce during the recent NextGen Government Training Virtual Summit, aiming to help employees positively affect their team dynamics.

During the session, Hardman covered the impact of microaggressions and unconscious bias, as well as practical strategies for fostering an inclusive and effective workforce. Below are a few takeaways and the recording from this session.

Key Takeaways:

1. Generational Workforce Management: Managing a five-generation workforce requires understanding their unique perspectives, experience levels, communication norms, and tech savviness.

2. Addressing Workplace Bias: Microaggressions and unconscious bias can negatively impact workplace interactions, leading to unintended discrimination and unfair treatment.

3. Generational Communication Preferences: Do you know the preferred communication methods of each generation? Older generations favor face-to-face and phone calls, while younger generations prefer instant messaging, video calls, and social media. Knowing these preferences is essential so you can reach employees where they’re at.

4. Multi-Generational Communication Strategies: Forming an effective communication strategy for your agency’s multi-generational workforce could include leveraging different forms of technology, fostering inclusivity, and encouraging intergenerational mentoring to bring your team closer together.

5. Empathy and Empowerment: Fostering a culture of empathy, flexibility, and empowerment ensures that all employees feel valued and respected, regardless of their generational background.

Want more professional development sessions focused on new tech, advancing your career and workplace wellness? Register now to join us at the NextGen Virtual Training Summit on Wednesday, May 21, 2025! The entire day of online learning and peer networking is free, and we’ll send you recordings of all the sessions if you can’t make it the day of the event.

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