Management of multigenerational teams

5 March, 2025 | Blog Current Nicht kategorisiert

In this article, we will discuss how to lead multigenerational teams: why it is important to establish a dialog and what are the most effective methods for doing so.

We live in a fast-paced world in which seniors have to adapt. In contrast, younger people are looking for solutions to global crises – climate change, the rising incidence of mental disorders or poverty.

While the United Nations has formalized the Sustainable Development Goals, we still have a long way to go to achieve the desired results. I believe that one of the most important dimensions of creating a better world is leadership.

Why talk about multigenerational leadership

Every day we see how egos destroy countries and companies. Today, the world needs fewer egocentric bosses and more powerful leaders.

This may not be the root of all evil, but the generational divide is visible. Seniors accuse the youth of being too focused on digitalization and living in a parallel world. The younger generations accuse the older ones of causing climate change and having an obsession with capitalist values.

There is some truth in all arguments. But arguing forever won’t help anyone. It’s time to bridge the dialog across multiple generations and get them to work together to create a brighter future.

What each generation brings to the table

Seniors bring wisdom, historical context and industry knowledge. However, they can also be rigid or hesitant about new ideas. They can stick to what they know and be less open to innovation.

The younger generations, on the other hand, are digitally savvy and have a lot of energy. They want to change the world, but sometimes don’t know how best to do it.

Bringing the two together is the ideal solution to create sustainable solutions together. Imagine both sides sitting at the same table and having a positive, creative dialog – innovation meets heritage.

This is where we need to talk about leading multigenerational teams.

Creating a safe space for everyone

Without a safe space, there can be no dialog. All team members must feel valued and respected in order to be able to open up.

Ask them to introduce themselves both professionally and personally – their story, motivation and expectations for the future. Encourage them to share their tough moments when they feel comfortable and how they overcame them. Inspire them with your own stories, and you’ll see the room fill with empathy and compassion.

Creating an emotional bond with people brings a lot.

Every person has different needs: Some people need security and recognition for the value they create. Others just need a little encouragement to move forward. Some need guidance, others autonomy to follow their convictions.

The most important task of a leader of a multigenerational team is to create a space in which people can communicate openly and without fear or hesitation.

Promoting cross-generational mentorship

A few years ago, I heard about reverse mentoring. I asked one of my younger colleagues to give me direct feedback. As he was two levels below me in the team, I wasn’t sure how open and honest he would be. But he was positive, open and confident.

It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done! I learned things that I would never have realized otherwise. For example, he told me that people got anxious every time I came back from a board meeting angry. No matter what I said, they thought our team might be in danger.

He told me about hidden conflicts in the team that I had never noticed. He also explained how comforting it is for the team members when I start each one-on-one meeting by asking how they feel. I knew it must be comforting, but it was a welcome reassurance.

If you want to create a great atmosphere, encourage reverse mentoring. Younger employees can share not only their feedback, but also digital skills or current trends with older members. Experienced members can offer insights into career and strategic leadership.

Show people that mentorship goes both ways. Every generation can step into teaching roles.

The secret to leading multigenerational teams – co-creation

Co-creation is the best way to bring people with different backgrounds together.

A few years ago, I worked in an international team that was tasked with co-creating new digital customer journeys. We started with enthusiasm: ideas were flying around. We designed prototypes and proposed collaborations with the big technology companies.

After a few weeks, we invited some customers to test our new products. We were shocked!

The most disruptive ideas were immediately rejected. We tried to explain why this advanced product could solve all their problems, but we missed an important point: their problem was different.

Humiliated by the customers’ reactions, we retreated to our offices. We devised a new way of working. First, we would listen to our younger colleagues who knew the customer’s needs by heart. The more technical employees would design the product to solve that specific problem.

For each project, set up a co-creation initiative that combines the strengths of different people. For example, younger employees could lead the digital innovation, while experienced members take on the strategy.

Continuous learning for every generation

We can’t rely on the formal training we received at school. If your last education was 30 years ago, it’s probably not up to date. You have to learn something new every year to keep up to date.

Build a culture where people are constantly learning – from the internet, books or each other. Today, knowledge is easily accessible online, from digital marketing tips to blockchain. Instead of formal education, many people use microlearning.

In one of my previous jobs, I had a colleague who loved teaching. I asked him what he could teach and he came up with a suggestion. We then created a course. He was happy to teach and our colleagues were happy to get the knowledge.

Conclusion – leading multigenerational teams is a rewarding experience

You may not solve every problem in the world, but leading a multigenerational team is a fulfilling experience. Reflect on the tips above and apply them in your daily work. You will see great results.