Academic Writing and Presentation

Academic Writing and Presentation

The article "Understanding and managing generational differences in the workplace," written by Kapoor, C. and Solomon, N analyses the different generations that exist in a workforce. The article describes the possible conflicts that are inflicted by different generations. Effective strategies for minimizing conflicts due to these conflicts are further suggested.

Introduction

The research of the article studies the four different generations that exist amongst managers and supervisors in the modern hospitality industry. The four generations includes, the Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y. The article explores the diverse characteristics within each generation, different work perspectives, the possible conflicts that occur between the generations and the various ways to manage conflicts that occur within a workplace. The article further suggests strategies that an employer can implement in order to create a successful workforce.

Summary and Findings

The research confirmed that each generation hold different perspectives toward work which is based on their unique characteristics. Traditionalists believe in their institutions and are loyal to their companies. Baby Boomers are also loyal to their companies; however hold characteristics of being more competitive and goal oriented. Unlike traditionalists who respect authority, baby boomers seek for promotions at their work place by working long hours. On the other hand, the Generation X pays focus on a balanced professional and personal life, where loyalty plays no role. Unlike the traditionalists who stick to the same firm for as long as a lifetime, the Generation X don’t have initial intentions of working at the same firm for a long time. The characteristics of Generation X and Millenials are quite similar in terms of their sense of independence, development opportunities and goal orientation. They seek to find meaningful jobs and one that benefits the society. Although they do share certain similarities, the Millenials have always had higher expectations than the other generations. They hold a reputation for their energy and skills; however, they do not hold a long attention span. Millenials have the ability to share opinion in the workplace unlike the other generations. When these characteristics of different generations are brought together into one work place, conflicts often outbreak. It was found that these conflicts have a hand in reducing profitability and increasing turnover rates of employees in the workplace. The lack of understanding between generations and diverse culture in the workplace can cause a lack of understanding and corporation, which negatively impacts the company. An area of conflict between generations is communication. Traditionalists and Baby boomers prefer