An intergenerational talent study has revealed major differences between age groups
The School of Labour Sciences of the University of Murcia, the Generation & Talent Observatory, and the Dirección Humana association have carried out a study based on more than 4,000 interviews to analyse the strengths and weaknesses of the generations known as baby boomers, generation X, generation Y and generation Z.
The report, which has been prepared using four reference elements (empowerment or decision-making capacity in the company, psychological flexibility or adaptation, innovative behaviour, and social commitment), reveals that young people are more highly committed to their work despite not having a feeling of stability. In addition, it has been observed that all generations claim to have a high level of empowerment, although young people believe they have less ability to exert influence over businesses. The baby boomers, on the other hand, have the highest level of psychological flexibility.
Ángeles Alcázar, vice-president of the 50 Plus Association and managing partner of the Generation & Talent Observatory, pointed out, during the presentation of the data, the importance of being aware of what concerns each age group to be able to manage this diversity and take advantage of the talent and knowledge of each group. “Up to five generations might coincide in a company”, she stressed.
The representatives of the entities responsible for the study also reflected on the labour market and human resources. In this sense, they highlighted that training is not as decisive as in the past but that soft skills make the difference. Furthermore, managers were encouraged to promote inclusive leadership actions in their organisations.
Main conclusions:
-Baby boomers (born 1949-1968): They are the custodians of the company’s know-how and want to pass it on to new generations. Great business vision.
-Generation X (1969-1980): They are better educated, very demanding and are excellent at achieving goals; however, they fear the new generations
-Generation Y (1981-1993): Individualistic and marked by immediacy. They need autonomy to perform their tasks, flexibility, and they need to continue training and innovating
-Generation Z (1994-2010): They are renowned for their innovation and entrepreneurship, but above all, they seek consistency in organisations’ values
