With Global Intergenerational Week kicking off during this week, we’re shining a global spotlight on how workplaces can thrive through intergenerational collaboration. When people from different generations come together, the mix of experiences, knowledge, and perspectives can lead to innovation and a more cohesive, inclusive work environment. Let’s explore how we can foster these connections and create workplaces that embrace the strengths of all generations.
Activities for the Week:
✅ Bridging the Gap at Work: Take note of how various generations interact at work. Do you see effective collaboration? Are there areas where one generation’s experience or approach could complement another’s? Reflect on these dynamics and how they contribute to workplace culture and productivity.
Example: “I noticed that the younger team members are quick to embrace new technologies, while the older generation brings strong mentoring skills. The challenge is bridging the tech gap to make collaboration smoother. I’m thinking of setting up a workshop where both sides can teach each other.”
🔹 Share an observation from your workplace. How do different generations work together, and what’s one thing that could improve their collaboration?
✅ Skill Swap for the Workplace: Take the opportunity to learn something new from a coworker from a different generation. Whether it’s gaining advice on career growth, learning a new skill, or sharing your own expertise, this exchange of knowledge can help everyone grow.
Example: “I had a great conversation with a colleague from a younger generation about personal branding and social media strategies. In return, I shared some leadership tips I’ve learned over the years. It was an eye-opening exchange for both of us!”
🔹 What skill or piece of career advice did you exchange with a colleague from another generation? Share what you learned and how it benefited you both.
✅ Intergenerational Innovation: Think about a time when people from different generations collaborated to solve a problem or create something new. How did each generation contribute in their own way? Consider how cross-generational innovation can lead to more creative solutions and diverse thinking.
Example: “Our team recently worked on a product redesign. The younger team members brought fresh, tech-savvy ideas, while the older members provided valuable insights from years of experience. Together, we created a solution that was both innovative and practical.”
🔹 Share an example from your workplace where different generations worked together to innovate or solve a problem.
💬 How to Participate: Join the global conversation by using #GIW25 and our local hashtag #GenConnectNZ to share your experiences and insights throughout Global Intergenerational Week!
📱 Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for week updates and event highlights. Don’t forget to comment here to share your thoughts and experiences with others.
