Workers' attitudes and habits vary by generation in ways that may require some adjustment. Researchers found work style and communication methods are different, as are the ways people approached career advancement.
Younger workers favored emailing and texting as forms of communication, according to the research by CareerBuilder. They were also more positively disposed toward discussing things over the phone. Both age groups considered face-to-face conversation their first choice, though the margin was larger among older respondents.
Younger workers were more likely to have shorter hours, take work home with them and arrive later in the day. Generally, they perceived getting the work done as important but the timing as irrelevant, and were much more open to flexible work schedules. Older workers were less inclined to that point of view, placing more emphasis on scheduling. When it came to career advancement, older workers had a more patient viewpoint, while their younger colleagues thought it was important to seize opportunities that presented themselves.
There were other variations among these as well. Employers should keep in mind that their workers from different generations approach things with different mindsets and will work to accomplish their tasks in diverse styles. Their HR management system may need to be flexible to account for these variations.
