TROY, MI -- (Marketwire) -- 08/26/09 -- Kelly Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: KELYA) (NASDAQ: KELYB) -- Any workplace with a broad spectrum of generations is likely to
face management challenges in juggling the needs of different age groups. A
recent international survey finds that issues such as communication style
and monetary awards can be the source of marked differences in attitude
among the three main workplace generations -- Gen Y (aged 18-29), Gen X
(aged 30-47), and baby boomers (aged 48-65).
The survey, by global workforce solutions leader Kelly Services, finds that
Gen Y is increasingly using instant messaging, yet all age groups
overwhelmingly prefer face-to-face communication. In regard to rewards and
bonuses, older workers prefer non-cash items such as time off work and
training opportunities. Gen Y have a clear preference for monetary rewards.
The findings are part of the Kelly Global Workforce Index, which obtained
the views of approximately 100,000 people in 34 countries covering North
America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
Kelly Services Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, George
Corona, says the task of managing the generations may not be as complex as
many managers, and some employees, believe.
"By addressing issues such as internal communications and compensation, it
is possible to reap the benefits of managing a diverse group of people, and
generate conditions that can help organizations to flourish," Corona says.
Results also show 42 percent of respondents say differences between Gen Y,
Gen X and baby boomers actually improve workplace productivity, while 24
percent say they interfere with productivity, and 23 percent say they make
no difference.
More than a third (42 percent) of all employees say they have experienced
intergenerational conflict in the workplace, while almost three quarters
admit to adapting the way they communicate with colleagues from a different
generation in order to avoid problems.
Across the generational divide, there is recognition of the role of
management in addressing critical issues.
