By Lana Johnston, Founder and CEO of Taking It Forward Pty Ltd
As we approach 2025, the workplace is shaping up to be unlike anything we’ve seen before. Businesses are witnessing a unique convergence of generations. We could have up to five generations in the workforce – Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and in some cases, even the emerging Generation Alpha. At Taking It Forward Pty Ltd, I’ve spent years helping businesses harness the power of their people. And let me tell you, there’s something truly special about this moment. A multigenerational workforce is more than a demographic reality—it’s a strategic advantage that can propel your business forward. Here’s how.
1. Enhanced Innovation and Problem-Solving
Innovation thrives on diversity of thought. When employees across different age groups collaborate, their unique perspectives create fertile ground for groundbreaking ideas. Older workers often bring a wealth of experience and deep industry knowledge, while younger employees offer fresh insights and technological prowess. This cross-pollination of ideas can drive innovative solutions to complex business challenges.
For example, seasoned professionals may draw on historical trends to predict market behaviours, while younger colleagues leverage digital tools and social media analytics to refine these predictions. Together, these diverse approaches spark creativity and provide businesses with a competitive edge.
What you can do: Encourage intergenerational brainstorming sessions and create cross-functional teams where younger and older employees work hand-in-hand. Whether through project teams, workshops, or innovation challenges, encourage idea sharing and make sure every voice is heard.This collaboration will naturally foster out-of-the-box thinking.
2. Broader Market Understanding
Let’s be real: different age groups see the world in different ways, and that’s a good thing.Your team should really reflect your customer base. A multigenerational workforce lends itself to multi-generational marketing, giving you insights into what everyone wants—rather than getting tied up in one specific demographic.
Here’s an example. A Gen Z employee might have a pulse on what’s trending on social media, while a Baby Boomer could know exactly what makes older customers tick. Together, they can help your business connect with people across the spectrum. This dynamic interplay allows businesses to craft marketing strategies that resonate authentically across age groups.
What you can do: Involve your team in shaping your marketing strategies, research and product development processes. Get their input on what resonates with their generation and beyond. You’ll end up with campaigns that feel authentic—and work.
3. Knowledge Transfer and Mentorship
Let’s talk about one of the biggest hidden treasures of a multigenerational workforce: knowledge transfer. Older employees carry decades of experience and institutional know-how. Younger team members? They bring fresh ideas, tech savvy, and a totally different approach to getting things done.When these two groups come together, the result is pure synergy.
Gone are the days where mentorship was solely the role of older employees. Every generation has something unique to offer. For example, a seasoned employee can mentor a younger one on leadership, while the younger employee can teach them the ins and outs of emerging tech. It’s a two-way street, and both sides grow as a result.
What you can do: Pair experienced workers with younger employees in reverse-mentoring initiatives to foster mutual growth or ensure project teams have generational diversity. Make it part of your culture to celebrate learning—no matter who it’s coming from.
Bridging the Generational Divide
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Bringing together multiple generations can come with its own set of challenges. Misunderstandings about communication styles, stereotypes, and even work habits can cause friction. But here’s the good news: these hurdles are absolutely surmountable. Here’s how you can address three common challenges to create a harmonious, high-performing multigenerational workforce:
1. Stereotypes and Bias
One of the biggest barriers to generational harmony is stereotypes. Younger employees may unfairly label older colleagues as resistant to change, while seasoned workers might dismiss younger generations as entitled or inexperienced. These biases, if left unchecked, can erode trust and collaboration.
To combat this, invest in training programs that highlight the unique strengths each generation brings to the table. Create an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and makes it clear that every perspective has value. Train your leaders to spot and address bias. Make sure everyone feels valued, no matter their age.
2. Communication Styles
Different generations often have distinct communication preferences. While older employees might prefer face-to-face meetings or phone calls, younger workers are often more comfortable with quick texts, emails, or collaboration tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams.
To bridge these gaps, create an environment where all communication styles are respected. Use collaboration tools that cater to diverse preferences, and encourage employees to adapt to each other’s methods when needed.
3. Flexible Work Policies
Flexibility is crucial for fostering inclusivity in a multigenerational workforce—whether it’s in working hours or career paths. Employees at different life stages have varying needs—whether it’s a parent of young children requiring flexible hours, a mid-career professional seeking career development opportunities, or an older worker considering phased retirement.
Flexible work arrangements, such as hybrid models or variable hours, help employees feel supported and valued. This, in turn, boosts morale and retention across all age groups. By meeting employees where they are in their lives, you create a workplace culture that promotes loyalty and mutual respect.
The Future is Multigenerational
At Taking It Forward Pty Ltd, I’ve seen firsthand how embracing generational diversity strengthens organisations. From startups to corporations navigating mergers, the ability to harness a multigenerational workforce is always pivotal in driving innovation, understanding your markets, and sustaining knowledge.
As we head into 2025, the companies that stand out won’t just be the ones with the latest tech or the trendiest marketing campaigns. They’ll be the ones that embrace their multigenerational teams, creating workplaces where innovation, insight, and mentorship flourish.
