Meeting the learning needs of the multigenerational workplace

Today’s workplace is made up of five generations. Employees can vary in age from eighteen to seventy-five. For L&D professionals this means that they have to manage a very big range of expectations when it comes to learning and career development.

Here are a few characteristics of each generation that will help training course creators to meet the needs of the modern employee, no matter their age.

1. The Veterans (1927 - 1945)

   Very loyal to colleagues and employers
   Are usually ageing partners or counselors
   Great expertise
   Less tech-savvy
   Prefer face-to-face training
   Enjoy long lectures

2. Baby Boomers (1946 - 1964)

   Usually hold managerial positions
   Bring in a considerable chunk of company profit
   Very work-centered and adaptable
   Accept new L&D technologies
   Also prefer face-to-face interaction in training
   Usually mentor younger employees

3. Generation X (1965 - 1980)

   Not as numerous
   Mostly hold mid-level positions
   Place great value on work-life balance
   Dislike micromanagement
   Prefer modern L&D tech
   Are mostly individual learners

4. Millennials (1981 - 2000)

   The fastest growing employee segment
   Mostly hold entry-level positions
   Expect to evolve quickly
   Appreciate immediate feedback and praise
   Are adopters and promoters of the latest technologies
   Prefer collaborative learning

5. The iGeneration (2000 -)

   Recently joining the workplace
   Think of technology as a given
   Consider work-life balance a must for career success
   Are eager for learning and development opportunities
   Expect and contribute to a knowledge-sharing culture
   Put great value on the right learning activities

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