456: Managing Generational Diversity In Construction Workplace

This Podcast Is Episode Number 456, And It's About Managing Generational Diversity In Construction Workplace Every manager has habits that make them effective. Managing contractors doesn't just mean scheduling them and making sure they're progressing on the project, but also knowing how to address workplace matters proactively - for one, the growing generational differences among their peers to communicate effectively and boost productivity.

These days, it's inevitable that a diverse group of older and younger workers cross paths in the construction industry. After all, the young, tech-savvy, socially conscious Gen Y (Millennials) and Gen Z are currently the largest living generation in the U.S., navigating the workforce in record numbers. And the boomers may be retirement age, but that doesn't mean they're ready to stop working. Many baby boomers choose to enjoy "encore careers" – jobs that allow them to continue applying their skills and experience to personally meaningful projects.

Here are a few ways to help these two groups work together so your construction business benefits from their unique and complementary skills. 

Baby boomers and millennials in the construction business

Millennials offer incredible potential to the companies they work for. Young, tech-savvy, and interested in making a difference globally, Gen Y only lacks one key trait: experience.

On the other hand, Boomers know how the business world works, and many enjoy sharing their knowledge with younger colleagues. 

However, unlike millennials, they may be "stuck" doing things less efficiently simply because they don't adapt quickly to new technologies. 

With their distinctive skill sets, pairing up a young worker with an older employee can be mutually rewarding – and highly beneficial – if you know how to manage the relationship.

Partners – not proteges

Trust is the foundation of every good working relationship. Building trust among your younger and older workers can mean establishing a very different work dynamic than your more former employees may be used to. 

To keep clear of tension, avoid creating hierarchies at work. No one is the boss; everyone is there to exchange knowledge and experience. Even in a mentor-mentee relationship, each person must see themselves as equal. That way, when someone doesn't know something, there's no reason to feel embarrassed.

Communication is key

Being digital natives, Millennials may prefer communicating with tweets, texts, and instant messages; Boomers, on the other hand, will likely make a phone call or send an email. 

Moreover, older generations may use a more formal approach to communicating at work, particularly with management. They may interpret a more casual communication style – common among their Gen Y peers – as a lack of respect.

You can help bridge gaps in communication with weekly staff meetings. You might even consider creating a communication policy: group emails for urgent matters that affect everyone and the communicator's preferred form of communication for other issues. 

Successful Construction Companies' Employees Produce Results

Excellent contractors understand quality, scope, and time regardless of generational differences. They are willing to work efficiently.

When you have a Business Strategy, everything changes your life and your construction company because you will see everything differently. Your thinking patterns and what you think about the most are why you are where you are now. It is worth noting that there is no profit in chaos, and the sooner you understand that the better off you will be, including your mental and physical health.

It may be too late to recoup past losses from chaos, but it is not too late to stop it from happening again. To begin with, get a clear understanding of What Ten Minutes Costs Your Contracting Company and start implementing a Business Strategy to eliminate chaos.

Final thoughts

While you can't necessarily influence how well any two employees work together – after all, there's more to any working dynamic than generational tendencies – an awareness of how your staff works best and an attitude of flexibility can make a huge difference. 

Find ways to support your employees as they nurture each other's growth. When it comes to problem-solving, encourage your boomer staffers to help younger workers understand the reasons behind their decisions with examples based on their experience. Likewise, millennial staff should think about the best ways to teach their older colleagues, who are less comfortable with technology, to use a new web tool or software.

With these tips in mind, you'll be on your way to nurturing the skills and talents of all your workers – and creating a harmonious atmosphere for everyone.

About The Author:

Sharie DeHart, QPA is the co-founder of Business Consulting And Accounting in Lynnwood, Washington. She is the leading expert in managing outsourced construction bookkeeping and accounting services companies and cash management accounting for small construction companies across the USA. She encourages Contractors and Construction Company Owners to stay current on their tax obligations and offers insights on how to manage the remaining cash flow to operate and grow their construction company sales and profits so they can put more money in the bank. Call 1-800-361-1770 or sharie@fasteasyaccounting.com

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