The Good Ol' Generation Gap

In human resources we were talking about the generation gap that leaders in every industry are facing. A few articles we read in HR illustrated that this generation gap may not really exist, that the research behind it is actually quite shoddy. The article states that a person’s life stage is what makes them relatable to other people. The Baby Boomers and Generation Y are actually quite alike in their beliefs so leaders should look to mentorship instead of seeing it as a possible conflict. It tied really well into the discussion we were having a week or so ago in class about what our generation was looking for in the work place.

“Conversely Gen Yers, who expect their social lives to be integrated with their work lives, can be educated about the complications of marriage and family experienced by Gen Xers and Baby Boomers.

As future leaders in the Sport and Recreation, I feel as though a strong understanding of the different life stages will greatly benefit us! We can help bridge this generational gap through strong mentorship and coaching programs in the workplace and a little compassion towards people who have more life demands than we do.