Generation Z, baby boomers, generation y, generation x. You can hardly see the forest for the trees. Most companies today contain a mixed group of generations, each with their own characteristics and way of working. As a manager, it is crucial to realize that different generations need different management styles. In this blog we try to give you a number of concrete tips that will enable you to deal with generational differences.

The working generations

When we look at the working population, we often talk about the next generations:

Baby boomers

Employees between the ages of 55 and 64, from the baby boom that arose after the Second World War. Been active in the labor market for years and grew up in a time of growing prosperity after the war.

Generation X

The core of the current labor market. Between 35 and 54 years old. This group is partly characterized by a period of economic decline, which made it difficult to find a job. Many highly educated people were without work.

Generation Y

Also called millennials. Young professionals between 25 and 34 years old. Raised in a fairly protected environment with a lot of economic prosperity, but woke up by the economic crisis (credit crisis) of 2007-2011. Strongly focused on career advancement and materialism.

Generation Z

The current entrants to the labor market, aged between 18 and 24. In contrast to the millennials, they are less materialistic and career-sensitive. Growing up in a world of digital media, social media and smartphones.

Tips for dealing with the generations

Every generation has a different approach to life and a different experience of work. Each generation therefore requires a different approach and management style. That can be quite difficult. Especially when you, as a manager, come from a different generation than the person opposite you, there can be a lot of misunderstanding on both sides. To help you get started, we have listed a number of concrete tips per generation.

Baby boomers

You are dealing with an experienced group. Been working for years and therefore no longer easy to shape or influence. Focus on a committed and intensive way of managing this target group.

• Don't give orders, ask questions.
• Show personal (intense) interest in the individual.
• Make it clear and transparent what they are unique in and where their added value lies.
• Challenge them to make an impact within your organization by using their experience and dominance.

Generation X

This group of employees is in the middle of life. Usually has (young) children and their time is therefore limited. Also at work. Most managers are in this group themselves. A to-the-point way of managing best meets the expectations of generation X.

• Manage by output, set clear goals and expectations.
• Let them approach and do it in their own way, give them space.
• Coach in a proactive manner, but without getting too close to them.
• Don't bind them too much to rules that could delay or hinder the work.

Generation Y

This generation is extremely ambitious and relatively materialistic. Many of the high potentials within your organization come from this generation. In the coming years, your company will have to be partly supported by generation Y. This requires a style of management in which growth, personal development and perspective are important elements.

• Give them responsibility and perspective for the future.
• Position yourself as a mentor, but not too much of a boss.
• Give them the tools to learn and develop themselves further.
• Try to keep them on board and let them grow within your organization.

Generation Z

Finally, the generation of newcomers. Just finished college and starting their career. As a counter-movement to the millennials, this generation is more concerned with health, freedom and hobbies, and less with work and career. Generation Z also includes many people who prefer to work part-time to have some free time. This requires a flexible attitude from you as a manager.

• Consider working hours, workplaces and working days. Be flexible.
• Keep it short and sweet, the attention span of generation Z is shorter than that of other generations due to social media and smartphones.
• Give feedback, but above all constructive.
• Make the work visual, Generation Z is very visual.
• Give space for hobbies and personal development.