Diverse Age Differences at Work Mean Return to Status Quo in Attitudes – Robert Half Study

Despite the 21st century’s widespread age differences in the workplace, at least one thing hasn’t changed – many attitudes of workers are similar. For example, employees are often most-interested in company stability, according to a study by Robert Half.

Sadly, for many companies, that might also be why 40 percent of respondents are apt to shop around in seeking a new job.

“There has been considerable focus on the differences among various generations, but our research confirms many similarities,” said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International. “Understanding the values shared by nearly all employees, particularly in light of changing economic conditions, can help companies enhance their recruitment and retention efforts.”

The study involves more than 1,400 people working fulltime in North America. The respondents are either college graduates or are in school. Just over 500 are hiring managers. The demographics include baby boomers, aged 46 to 64; Generation X, 32 to 45; and Generation Y, 21 to 31.

Among the three generations, the study reveals five similarities:

• Job security are preferred over working for a community-minded firm or even a shorter commute
• Salary, company stability and benefits were the most salient
• Most-prized benefits – Healthcare and dental coverage, vacation time and matching 401 (k) plans
• The recession is the main reason for those planning to work past 65
• Diversity in work experience is believed to be beneficial

Here are the generational differences:

• Following the downturn, many plan to job hunt. The breakdown includes 36 percent of Generation Ys, 30 percent of Generation Xs, and 24 percent of baby boomers.
• Among the Generation X, 38 percent plan to upgrade skills and 33 percent percent plan to stay with their employers.
• For the respondents planning to work past 65, 54 percent are baby boomers, 46 percent are Generation X, and 39 percent are Generation Y.
• 34 percent of Generation X and 27 percent of baby boomers managed to add to their retirement nest eggs since the beginning of the downturn.
• Many are concerned about differences in coworker work ethics and balancing career with their lives. That’s 54 percent of baby boomers, 45 percent of Generation X, and 35 percent of Generation Y.

“Many employees, particularly Gen Y professionals, are biding their time in their current employment situations and plan to make a move when they feel the economy is on firmer footing,” said Brett Good, a Robert Half International district president. “Now is the time for employers to take action and outline career paths within their company for strong performers. Compensation reviews also should be conducted to ensure that pay is competitive.”

Well said.

If you want, you can get a copy of the study.

From the Coach’s Corner, if you want 18 strategies for better employee relations, see Leadership Strategies to Profit from Employee Respect.