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Bridging the Office Generation Gap

For newly graduated employees working at their first job, there are plenty of learning opportunities. Learning how to conduct yourself in meetings, when to contribute and what to contribute; learning how to interact with your boss; learning more and more about your career through experience, the list can go on and on.

But, one the most surprising learning curves may be how to get along with and work with colleagues from differenet generations. Entry-level employees will have colleagues ranging from 25 to over 60 years of age. If you are an entry-level employee, you will probably have more in common with those who have one or two years of experience, but you cannot expect to only work with those you have something in common.

So how do you bridge the gap between yourself and a colleague who may be in their 40's, 50's or 60's?

First of all, you have to remember that when you enter the workforce for your first professional job, there is a "pecking order". More than likely, your manager is going to be 20 and possibly 30 years your senior. So you will need to master the manager-employee relationship off the bat. This is a situation where you can feel comfortable asking more mature colleagues their advice. Life and work experience are a tremendous value that more mature employees can offer entry-level workers.

Secondly, take a cue from workers who have tenure at your company. Pay attention to how they interact with other colleagues and clients. Don't mimic their mannerisms completely, but do take time to understand their tone of voice, how they dress and the manner in which they conduct themselves throughout the work day.

Be sure to take their advice and not be offended if someone pulls you aside and points out behavior you could improve upon or stop altogether. If it's your first job, you are not going to know everything from the get-go. Much of the workplace is about learning as you go. Thank them for their support and appreciate the fact they are telling you before the wrong behavior can result in a big problem with your manager.

Don't forget to give something back in return. As an entry-level, younger worker, you probably have more technological skills than your more experienced counterparts. Offer to help them understand some of the newer technological advancements, and pitch in where you can, especially if you have colleagues with children who look like they could be burning the midnight oil.