Understanding ‘generation gaps’ vital to workplace harmony

Our work environment today is more diverse than ever. In addition to incorporating military, civilians and contractors, we are now confronted with the task of forming an efficient team from members of distinctly different generations.

I recently came across an article discussing the differences in work habits across generations. The article divided our current workforce into four main groups: veterans born before 1946, Baby Boomers born between 1946 and 1964, Generation X born between 1965 and 1977, and Generation Y born between 1978 and 2000.

As a new commander, I see the differences and definitely have come to appreciate the unique contributions each group brings to the squadron.

Military leaders are challenged to incorporate everyone’s specific talents into a cohesive and optimal work force. To do this, we need to understand the motivations, needs and interests of the various groups.

In the book « When Generations Collide: Who They Are. Why They Clash. How to Solve the Generational Puzzle at Work, » Lynne Lancaster and David Stillman attempt to characterize these distinct generations and what each brings to the fight.

Veterans make up about 15 percent of the work force and are, as a group, more accustomed to a top-down approach to management, but still want to make a lasting contribution. In a phrase, they are devoted and put « duty before pleasure. » This is an obvious direct translation to service before self … a trait we actively try to promote in the Air Force today.

The second group, the Baby Boomers, make up almost half of our current work force according to the U.S. Census Bureau. They can be team-oriented, but are highly competitive. Both of these traits immediately lend to the military way of life by working as a team to achieve excellence in all we do.

Making up about one-third of the work force are Generation X members. They are more flexible than the previous two groups and tend to be technologically advanced, yet still goal oriented. While they have a « more casual » attitude toward authority, their skills can still help the Air Force leverage 21st century advances and continue to evolve into the strongest military force the world has ever seen.

Our newest additions to the work force belong to Generation Y and their impact will continue to increase. The buzzword for this generation is multitasking. As a whole, they are comfortable with the latest technology and know how to use it in a culturally diverse workplace; plus, they relate well to older people. This group just may prove to be the glue bonding all of the others together in our workplace.

We now deal with a workforce ranging from 18-year-olds to those with 18 or more years of experience. It is essential we recognize they are all vital parts of our organizations.

Whether you supervise or simply work with someone significantly different in age, don’t let the « generation gap » be a barrier to fostering a great working relationship.

Who knows? You may actually come to embrace your differences as the key to what makes your unit the best. Knowing and appreciating the differences is half the battle.