Generational Diversity in the Modern Workplace

Around 30 people attended a Management and Career Development Group meeting held on 30th April at the Australian Resources Research Centre (ARRC) in Kensington, Sydney to discuss Generational Diversity in the Modern Workplace.

Mr Nigel Sanderson, Human Resources Manager at Pfizer Pty Ltd, and Mr David Udy, Branch Manager of Kelly Scientific Resources, Perth each gave an exposé on the generational diversity changes that are affecting our working relationships.

Nigel pointed out that there were 4 times more Generation Y’s in the workplace than Generation X’s, so it is no wonder Generation X is called the 'forgotten generation'. More importantly, Nigel explained that although the definition of 'generation' has changed from the child / mother / father / grandparent relationship to become one based on the period of time in which people were born, we must remember that 'generational diversity' is just one piece in the vast mosaic of factors that make up individuals in our workplace. As managers, we must remember that flexibility is the key.

David then highlighted the main traits of Generation Y: wanting instant gratification, multiple stimuli, rapid career progression, continual praise, social interaction, and fun. It was all summed up neatly in the attraction of the X-BOX 360 game 'Guitar Hero III - Legends of Rock'. Employers need to adapt their selection processes to ensure they can capture the attention of the best of this generation.

After the talks there was a lively discussion session between the audience and a panel of experts, with the conclusion that all we really need is to be 'young at heart'.

Members of the expert panel (L to R): Mr Shane Koenig (Chair M&CD Group), Ms Anne Sabine (Kelly Scientific Resources), Ms Monika Gluszak-Eyles (Pfizer), and the two speakers; Mr David Udy and Mr Nigel Sanderson.