Generational Work Differences Calls for Adaptable Leadership Types

I used to think that leadership meant being strict and providing a disciplined approach to management. To lead was to be all business and no fun. However, I tried that method, and it didn’t work. I wasn’t having fun, and neither were the people I was managing. Sound familiar? 

WHAT ARE GENERATIONAL DIFFERENCES?

Through trial and error, I realized that there are many different leadership types. It depends on the kind of people on your team and the goals you all aim to accomplish together. Furthermore, Leadership roles require adaptability to diverse perspectives, especially generational work differences within teams. Having multiple generations, and therefore different belief systems in the workplace, isn’t a new phenomenon but opinions between generations are more contrasting now than ever.

Undoubtedly, hiring and retaining Generation Z sales development representatives is difficult. While many companies thoroughly plan B2B recruitment, oftentimes Generation Z hires burnout and turnover quickly. Many business articles have come out about the clash between generations in the workplace as a cause of this phenomenon. Despite the little empirical evidence that validates these myths, there is a belief that the generational differences within the workplace lead to detrimental effects on business organizations. 

New research demystifies these beliefs and provides a clear understanding of how generational differences within the workplace have a positive impact on organizations and B2B sales recruitment. Additionally, the research shows that Generation Z in the workplace value different qualities in a leader. They crave feedback and praise, they enjoy structure, and they desire time to recharge outside of work. Understanding that can help the working relationship flourish, and therefore, happier employees. 

IS COMMUNICATION IN THE WORKPLACE IMPORTANT?

Part of B2B recruitment for sales development representatives is examining if a student has experience as an SDR. These graduates like to receive guidance from leadership that help them with their workplace behaviors that may be misunderstood. One example is the use of a phone in the workplace. 

Baby Boomers or Gen Xers may read a person being on their phone during a conversation as disrespectful. We have to remember that Generation Z in the workplace sees technology as a part of their lives. It is inseparable from who they are. Chances are, they are taking notes, checking emails, and doing many other important tasks on their phone. And this behavior is more efficient than other methods.

As companies work on B2B recruitment for sales development representatives, there are many positive attributes that a fresh-minded and technology-driven employee can bring to your company. Rather than concluding that generational differences within the workplace are inevitable, businesses can work to understand different leadership types, encourage reverse mentorship, and intentionally learn from younger generations. Improving relationships in the workplace leads to optimal business functioning and happier employees.