Bridging the gap: navigating generational differences in the workplace

4 Jun 2025, 7:30 a.m.

By Linda

With multi-generations now working together, each demographic brings its own characteristics to the workplace. We've collated some resources to help navigate the generational differences.

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As a society we love to label groups. We refer to Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, Generation Z and now Alphas. Who are these different generations and when were they born?

The Greatest Generation (born 1901–1927)
The Silent Generation aka Traditionalists (born 1928–1945)
Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964)
Generation X (born 1965–1980)
Millennials (born 1981–1996) (Also known as Generation Y or the Snowflake generation)
Generation Z (born 1997–2012)
Generation Alpha (born 2013–2025)

A recent RNZ report based on Statistics NZ data showed older generations are remaining in the workplace longer. As a result kaimahi may find themselves working alongside, managing or being managed by those who may be as much as half a century younger.

Each generation has, broadly, expectations, values and motivations different to the previous generation. Yet, in many ways, they are also very similar. Being aware of these can help us tailor our interactions and ensure harmonious workplace relationships.

Deloitte recently released the 14th edition of Deloitte Global’s Gen Z and Millennial Survey. The survey "examines the responses of more than 23,000 participants across 44 countries". This demographic is "...projected to make up 74% of the global workplace by 2030, [and] the survey finds that these generations are seeking a “trifecta” of money, meaning, and well-being while building the technical and soft skills that they believe will prepare them for the workplace of the future".
The priorities of these demographics are different from earlier generations. The survey found only six percent of respondents are aiming for senior leadership roles although they do not lack ambition. Instead, Gen Zs prioritise opportunities for career growth and learning, just not into a senior leadership role. They also want work/life balance, job satisfaction and to be employed in meaningful work.

Are these different generations really that different from each other?  What common denominators do they have?  How do you manage or work with a team of people across different generations? This week our business blog presents resources to assist you understand the generational gap whether you are employer or employee.

Watch and Listen

Fewer young people interested in leadership roles, new survey finds
RNZ's Kathryn Ryan interviewed Deloitte partner Lauren Foster, and Business New Zealand Chief Executive Katherine Rich on the implications of the Deloittes report to businesses and employers.
How generational stereotypes hold us back at work (TED talk)
Social psychologist Leah Georges shows how we're more similar than different and offers helpful tactics for navigating the multigenerational workplace.
What baby boomers can learn from millennials at work -- and vice versa (TED talk)
In this talk, entrepreneur Chip Conley shows how age diversity makes companies stronger and calls for different generations to mentor each other at work, with wisdom flowing from old to young and young to old alike.
Making sense of generational stereotypes at work
In this episode of the McKinsey Talks Talent podcast, talent leaders Bryan Hancock and Bill Schaninger talk to global editorial director Lucia Rahilly about new research on generational preferences at work: what’s myth, what matters, and how to manage the new multigenerational team.

Learn with LinkedIn

Diversity Across Generations: Supporting Workplace Inclusion
1h 3m, Beginner
In this course, instructor Linda Croyle—a consultant in transformative communication, diversity, and inclusion—teaches how to recognize generational characteristics to promote generational inclusion in the workplace. Learn what comprises a generation, how each differs, and how intergenerational collaboration can create successful outcomes. Get tips on identifying the work styles and qualities offered by each unique group.
Managing Multiple Generations
42m, Intermediate
Join instructor John Tarnoff to learn how people born into distinct age cohorts can work together effectively, turning seemingly divergent attitudes and backgrounds into harmonious and productive working relationships. John busts some of the common myths about each generation, and provides playbooks and best practices to support managers and reports in working more effectively together. He also lists the action steps organizations can take to better support age diversity.

Short Reads

How to Manage Gen Z Effectively
The generation that was brought up in the era of the internet and cannot imagine their life without a mobile device in their hands appears to be the most vulnerable when it comes to self-confidence when communicating with other people.
5 Generations in the Workplace: How to Manage Them All
Generational diversity is a competitive advantage when you treat everyone’s strengths and weaknesses with respect and care. And when you find value in everyone’s perspectives, you’ll see stronger teamwork, productivity, and creativity.
3 Strategies to Bridge Generational Divides at Work.
Gardner HK, Roberson D.   Harvard Business Review Digital Articles. December 2022:1-7 With effective leadership, friction between generations can spark creative opportunities
Helping Gen Z Employees Find Their Place at Work: Seven strategies to engage, support, and connect.
Fernandez J, Lee J, Landis K. Harvard Business Review Digital Articles. January 2023:1-10.
It is essential for managers to support their Gen Z employees and earn their full engagement. Here are seven strategies you can leverage to create a team dynamic of collaboration, commitment, and sustained motivation.
Millennial and Gen Z workers communicate differently. Here’s how
Here’s how you can effectively communicate with your millennial and Gen Z coworkers in the multigenerational labour force.