Gen Y to the haters: We don’t like you either

Generation Y make up a third of the workplace, and they are the most maligned demographic – but the generation conflict isn’t one-directional.

The baby boomers and Gen Xers who make up the bulk of managers in Canada’s organizations might be scratching their heads at their Millennial charges, but the confusion and disconnect is a two-way street.

According to a recent survey of all three generations in the workplace from American Express and Millennial Branding, misunderstandings, dislikes and conflict abound in an uncomfortable office three-way.

Some of the findings have shown:
•    Gen-Y found Gen-X “annoying and aggressive.”
•    Gen-X said Boomers are “have difficulty giving up control,” while Gen-Y said Boomers “live to work rather than work to live.”
•    Boomers described Gen-X as “loners” who “lack patience.”
•    Gen-X contended Gen-Y “think they know everything.”

So, how can you overcome these conflicts?