MEDIA RELEASE
Generational differences make the workplace more productive
according to new survey
September
10, 2009 –
Communication styles
and attitudes toward
rewards have
been identified as key differences between generations that are impacting workplace
productivity, according to the latest findings from an international survey.
The survey, by global workforce solutions leader Kelly Services, finds that despite the
popularity
of instant messaging among Gen Y, face-to-face contact remains the
preferred method
of communication in the workplace. When receiving rewards and
bonuses, many older workers like non-cash items such as time off work and training
opportunities while Gen Y has a clear preference for monetary payments.
The Kelly Global Workforce Index obtained the views of nearly 100,000 people in 34
countries including more than 13,000 in Australia.
Kelly Services Managing Director, James Bowmer, said that generational differences
can sometimes cause friction between employees, but when properly managed, can
also be a source of growth.
“When the differences between the age groups are harnessed effectively, they can
provide a powerful stimulus to creativity and productivity. Rather than trying to
smother this diversity, good employers are utilising it to generate fresh ideas and new
ways of doing business,” Mr Bowmer said.
The survey
finds that 40 per
cent of Australian respondents say the differences
between Gen Y (aged 18-29), Gen X (aged 30-47) and baby boomers (aged 48-65)
make the workplace more productive, while 23 per
cent say they interfere with
productivity and 24 per cent say they make no difference.
Among the key findings of the survey:
Baby boomers believe
they understand the generational differences better
than their younger colleagues
Gen Y are the most positive about the productivity benefits flowing from
diverse age groups in the workplace
In communicating
with colleagues, all generations prefer face-to-face
discussion over written or electronic communication
Gen Y and Gen X largely opt for traditional cash rewards while many baby
boomers lean toward non-cash benefits such as time off and training
opportunities
Almost half (47 per
cent) say they have experienced intergenerational
conflicts in their workplace.
2
There is acknowledgement across the spectrum that age-related
differences do
impact on the way people go about their work. The survey shows Gen Y and Gen X
are more likely than baby boomers to adapt their communication style when dealing
with collegues from a different generation.
Mr Bowmer said it is important that employers recognise the key differences between
the generations that can be effectively managed in order to achieve a harmonious
balance and a productive work environment.
“Juggling these pressures is challenging but by addressing issues such as
compensation and internal communications amongst others, it is possible to reap the
benefit from a diverse group of people, and generate conditions that can help
organizations to flourish,” Mr Bowmer said.
About the Kelly Global Workforce Index
The Kelly Global Workforce Index is a survey revealing opinions about work and the
workplace from a generational viewpoint. Results of the current findings from across Kelly’s
global operations in North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific will be published
throughout 2009 in a series of six releases.
About Kelly Services
Kelly Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: KELYA, KELYB) is a world leader in workforce management
services and human resources solutions. Kelly offers a comprehensive array of temporary
staffing, permanent placement, outsourcing, and consulting services. Kelly serves clients
around the globe and provides employment to 650,000 employees annually. Revenue in
Media contact:
Bob Bowden
Foresight Communications
02 9241 2811, or 0412 753 298
bbowden@bowmac.com.au
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