Young meets old: This is how Baby Boomers and Gen Z harmonize at work!

Young meets old: This is how Baby Boomers and Gen Z harmonize at work!

There are four generations active in today's working world: the Baby Boomers, Generation But despite often feared conflicts between the older and younger generations, in practice a different picture emerges, as Radio Gütersloh reports.

Social researcher Kilian Hampel has found that many beliefs about generational conflicts are rather clichés. Timon Hellwagner from the IAB points out that there is no concrete evidence of a real conflict between Baby Boomers and Generation Z. Instead, a recent analysis shows that the ratio of 20- to 24-year-olds actively participating in the labor market increased by six percentage points from 2015 to 2023. Now three out of four at this age are actively integrated into the job, which is the highest figure since the mid-1990s.

Common goals and differences

To put it simply, the differences between the generations are particularly serious in the digital area. While the Baby Boomers are often considered anti-technology and the older generations place more value on stability and hierarchies, Generation Z is known for appreciating digitalization and flexibility. According to Kununu, while there are typical prejudices against each group — Baby Boomers are seen as conservative and Gen Z are often seen as disinterested — the truth shows a type of consensus that is often overlooked.

All age groups strive for similar professional resources. Whether it's a good team atmosphere, job security, leadership styles or a good work-life balance, the generations don't tick as differently as many people think. The preference for shorter working hours can also be seen across all age groups. However, overtime is commonplace in all age groups, which clearly shows the challenges of modern work.

What helps against prejudice?

Prejudices surrounding generational conflicts often have deeper roots and can be reduced through various measures. Open discussions, mentoring programs and team building measures can help improve mutual understanding. It is crucial to leverage the strengths of each generation and learn from each other. Corporate culture is particularly important, as it plays a role in avoiding misunderstandings and valuing diversity. Mixed-age teams can be more productive and creative in the long term, even if they need more time to come together, emphasizes Hampel.

In summary, most typical generational conflicts are normal frictions in everyday working life that are not necessarily related to the age of the employees. Harmonious coexistence is possible if prejudices are broken down and active exchange is encouraged. This shows that the challenges in the world of work can be overcome if all generations pull together.