How the Generation Gap Might Affect Job Seekers

We scour all manner of media to find the latest, best information on workplace and hiring trends, which is how we found a gem of an article on generational differences in the workplace. From Portsmouth, New Hampshire's Seacoastonline comes an illustrative accounting of workers' gripes against peers and bosses of different generations.

Younger workers, it seems, believe that their elder colleagues do not respect them, while older workers – those over 48 – say their younger colleagues don't respect their seniority.

This perceived lack of respect leads to problems, notably the lack of willingness to collaborate for the benefit of achieving the goals of both groups.

While companies need to continue attract fresh, new talent, they can't do so at the expense of older workers. Many Baby Boomers already have retirement in their sights, but speeding things up by not providing an "age friendly" workplace could put many companies at a competitive risk if they start hemorrhaging seasoned workers.

While senior workers resent the too-casual workplace attire, the too-many personal cell-phone calls, and the lack of appropriate workplace manners they see in younger workers, those in Generations X and Y resent the lack of credibility they face in proposing new ideas, and the overall lack of respect they feel as worthy, up-and-coming professionals.

Also, younger workers spoke of their financial difficulties, stemming from college loans. Their plain talk on salary early in the interview process is a turnoff for older hiring managers, who feel that younger workers should focus on the benefits of getting a good career start at a good company. Younger workers say that's all well and fine as long as they can meet their financial commitments. In other words, younger workers are more upfront about the need for a certain salary even during first-round interviews.

Is anyone catching a whiff of irony here? Weren't Baby Boomers the ones to encourage open dialogue? Indeed, it has been a long, strange trip from Max Yasgur's farm to the executive suite.

Insightful older workers will remember their own generation's break from tradition, and how over time they matured and gravitated toward more traditional workplace attire and manners. At some point, the flip-flops of today's young employees will seem silly, the multiple piercings will prove to be a maintenance hassle, and the direct questioning will finesse into something more diplomatic. Young job seekers will be wise to minimize language and dress that would detract from their candidacy as applicants, especially when being interviewed by older hiring managers. And though it is tempting to talk about salary when it's a pressing issue, we suggest tabling the matter in favor of getting an offer and then wisely negotiating for a paycheck that matches your worth.

What we hope for all workplaces is that they foster acceptance and for employees of all ages. We can assure everyone out there in workland that dropping age bias and taking an open view of people as individuals – and not just members of a cohort – will go a long way toward bridging the age divide and get people focused on the tasks at hand.

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