Article
Cant We All Just Get Along? A Dual-Theory Approach to Understanding and Managing the Multigenerational Workplace
Journal of Organizational Psychology
(2017)
Abstract
Multigenerational workplaces bring a varied range of talents but present distinct challenges for employers. Generational differences can lead to lack of understanding, compromised communication, and decreased productivity. We examine the problem of generational differences through the lenses of two complementary generational theories. Generational differences are explored from the perspectives of age, social placement, the impacts of major societal changes, and each generations placement relative to the others. We conclude by presenting suggestions for employers based on these theoretical considerations. First, employers must familiarize themselves with their employees and workplace. Second, mentoring and reverse mentoring can promote effective intergenerational communication.
Disciplines
Publication Date
2017
Citation Information
Roxanne Vandermause and Ericka Sanner-Stiehr. "Cant We All Just Get Along? A Dual-Theory Approach to Understanding and Managing the Multigenerational Workplace" Journal of Organizational Psychology Vol. 17 Iss. 2 (2017) p. 103 - 110 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/roxanne-vandermause/36/