We’re all aware of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. However, age diversity often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. Of course, it’s essential to promote gender diversity, cultural diversity, and inclusivity for people who are neurodiverse or who live with disabilities. The key is to ensure we also appreciate the value of having a multi-generational workforce.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at five of the most powerful benefits teams can enjoy when they include a wide range of age groups.
1. Proficiency with technology
Many employers hesitate to take on young, inexperienced workers. However, the effort that goes into training and teaching these fledgling professionals can be well worth it. In addition to their drive, energy, and enthusiasm, many young people are naturally proficient with technology since they grew up with it already embedded in their lives. They can help a company navigate new technology and stay on top of trends. They can also be a valuable resource in helping employees who may not be so technologically proficient.
2. Depth of knowledge
Older workers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their roles, making them invaluable resources for the teams they work within. Those who have worked in a certain industry for decades have usually already encountered every challenge or opportunity you could throw at them, making them powerful allies to have on your side. Those who have a career change and come from other industries bring unique insights from their former roles.
3. Opportunities for mentoring
Having a mix of older and younger workers in your team is ideal for establishing fruitful mentoring relationships. Long-standing employees can mentor younger workers, helping them expand their skills and advance their careers.
If you encourage your employees to make the mentoring relationship a two-way street, you open up even more scope for greatness. Younger professionals who are fresh from university or vocational training generally have plenty of valuable knowledge that can serve their mentors and the business as a whole.
4. Smooth transitions
This is one of the most powerful secret weapons of a multi-generational workforce. You will always have people coming and going as they retire, change careers, or seek promotions. When you have a multi-generational workforce, there’s always someone to step up into newly available roles, helping you maintain continuity and stability within your organization.
As people reach the milestones at which they look to take maternity leave, seek promotions, or retire, you’ll have younger workers available to take their places. Crucially, your employees will see that there’s scope for progression within the company, giving you a better chance of retaining top talent.
5. Diverse skill sets
When your workforce features a diverse range of age demographics, you benefit from the different skills and talents they all have to offer. These skills can include technical abilities like programming as well as soft skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and excellent communication.
With employees coming together from different age brackets and backgrounds, you create an environment in which there’s always someone who’s encountered a problem before and who has the skills to fix it in the most efficient way possible. Not only will your team be better at brainstorming, problem-solving, and strategizing, but they’ll also be constantly learning from each other, making for a happier, more cohesive workplace.
People of all ages have unique talents, outlooks, and abilities to bring to the table. Companies that recognize this and hire a diverse, multi-generational workforce are well-positioned to make waves in their industries.
