There are four (and in some cases five) generations in today’s workplace, and although this might seem like a recipe for conflict, the reality is that if we embrace one another’s differences, we will have a strong and unique work team.

Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z all have different value sets, working habits and contributions that they bring to the workforce. Nonetheless, many organizations make the mistake of encouraging their employees to focus on their similarities when the key is to acknowledge, appreciate and make use of their differences. That is how you create a robust team!

Age diverse groups can be very valuable because they bring together different abilities, skills and knowledge. If managed effectively, they can offer better decision-making, more-productive collaboration, and improved overall performance.

Studies have shown that different generations think about the same topics, they pursue the same goals, but they come to them through different angles.

A team can benefit from the older generations’ superior knowledge, experience, and network. While the newer generations bring their creativity, knowledge of technology, energy, and desire to lead to the table.

If a manager understands where different generations come from, what they need and how they work, he/she will be able to offer them what they need to thrive in the workplace as individuals while using the complementary strengths of the team for the success of the company.

Below you will find a table that shows the values and contributions of each generation, as well as what the leadership team can do to make the most of that talent and have a happy team!