Stereotypes In Workplace

Each generation goes further than the generation preceding it because it stands on the shoulders of that generation. – Ronald Reagan

As the young generation transitions to the workplace it can be difficult to accommodate them with the older generation. The truth is that the workplace is in constant change. For one the new generation is imposing their way in the workplace. With the new trends of demographics in the workplace, the older generation has mixed feelings about young workers. The concerns about cross generational conflict at work can discourage young workers, decrease productivity, and create a tense environment

The new generation is eager to enter workplace but it can be discouraging when you have other watching every step you

take. The older generation feel like they should closely monitor the performance of younger workers in order to prevent them from making mistakes. As explored in the research study conducted by the University of Florida, older generations seem to worry about younger individuals in the labor force because, younger generations seem to have different priorities and motivators. The older generation assumes that the young population is reckless and don’t have the skills to take over or be part of the labor force. I can speak form personal experience and say that at my first job most people were older than me and always doubted my capacity to fulfill the requirements, and many times has made me feel discouraged to the point where I thought of quitting.
The cross generational conflict also affects the productivity in a work environment. Since older employees are so concerned about making sure the young employees that they might even slow down or stop completing tasks at work. Even though I have an entry level position I do feel like when my coworkers become so interested in trying to prevent me from making a mistake they are wasting their time.
The cross generational conflict also causes tension between employees. If workers are constantly interfering with others, it will create a tense environment. Young workers might feel trapped trying to avoid making mistakes while trying to demonstrate that they also can be successful. In my personal experience, I had to get my manger to let my coworkers know that I was not feeling comfortable with their constant expressions of concern towards my performance.
In conclusion, managers should make an effort to adapt new principles that will allow young workers to feel comfortable knowing they have the trust from the more experienced workers. Another solution is for young employees to be open to learn the skills it takes to perform what is expected from them. It is also important to understand the older generation and address their issues by having the manager be the only person to monitor the performance of new employees.