Multiple generations are co-existing in offices. If yours isn’t already, it will be by 2025 – that’s when 65% of the workforce will include Millennials or Gen Z. But what do those terms mean, and what does it mean for your workspace? We can help you celebrate the different perspectives and preferences you can expect from this mixing of ages and values, all while positioning your business as an attractive employer to a varied workforce. You’ll find slight variation in the years given to the generations, but here’s a quick guide!
Baby Boomers
Born between 1946-1964, they’re known for their work ethic and experience. They value stability and a defined hierarchy. Traditional office spaces and private offices resonate most with them.
Generation X
Born between 1965-1980, this generation is independent and wants work-life balance. They like collaborative spaces, autonomy and innovation.
Millennials
Born between 1981-1996, they want meaningful work and connection. They prefer open, collaborative and technology-driven environments for communication and creativity.
Gen Z
Born after 1997, they’re the newest additions to the workforce. They want dynamic and inclusive spaces. They champion diversity and are at ease working between physical and virtual work environments.
Steps to take for collaboration and inclusion
To fit in with the collaborative nature of Millennials and Gen Z, we recommend open-plan offices with communal workstations and breakout areas. It’s an ideal combination to support interaction and idea sharing. Balance these spaces with private nooks for focused work, and this will cater to the preferences of Baby Boomers and Generation X too.
Don’t forget about flexible workstations. Having them means teams can work in ways that best fits their workstyle. Baby Boomers may choose a traditional desk, but Gen Z might choose something more mobile and adaptable.
Tech-enabled workspaces benefit everyone, regardless of their generation. Baby Boomers will gravitate towards user-friendly tech, and Millennials and Gen Z can adapt to pretty much anything you want to integrate. This diverse environment is beneficial because younger generations will support the older ones – and this kind of genuine support creates a natural atmosphere of guidance and teamwork.
With more people working remotely, you need to be able to collaborate across cities and even the world. Gen Z and Millennials prefer to work remotely, but Baby Boomers and Gen X will be open to adapting too. And if they prefer to be physically in the office, you’ll have tools in place to connect them with the rest of the business.
To cater to each generation, balance traditional with modern. We can help you decide where, how and when. Personalisation can also really take the pressure off you and your team, as preferences can be taken into consideration at a moment’s notice and without stress. Choosing ergonomic furniture and customisable workstations is something we’re experts in, as we know first-hand how this can help with autonomy across generations.
Keep in mind dynamic, adaptable and diverse. And of course, feedback from your team about the space and how it’s working for them!
Don’t see multi-generational workspace compatibility as challenge; it’s an opportunity to create environments that foster collaboration, innovation, and mutual understanding. Let’s explore how we can bring your vision and needs to life. Get in touch today.