In today's workplace, there are typically four generations working side by side. These generations include Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. Each generation has its own unique strengths and perspectives, but it can also create a communication gap and misunderstandings among them. One way to bridge this gap in the workplace is through mentoring.

Mentoring is a powerful tool for creating a cohesive and supportive work environment. Pairing older, more experienced employees with younger, less experienced employees, can help to develop a culture of learning, growth, and mutual respect. Here are some ways mentoring can help to bridge the generational gap in the workplace:

1.    Create a Culture of Learning

Mentoring can help to create a culture of learning where employees are encouraged to share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives with each other. Younger employees can teach their mentors new skills and perspectives, such as social media and technology trends. This can help older employees stay up-to-date and better understand the priorities and expectations of younger generations. Similarly, older generations may be more well-versed in understanding the working environment and skills developed over time. Older employees can thus share their years of experience and knowledge with younger employees and provide guidance on career paths, professional development opportunities, and workplace etiquette, which can be invaluable to young employees who are just starting out. This can help build trust and respect, as younger employees learn from their mentors' successes and failures and implement them into their work. This can lead to increased collaboration, innovation, and productivity in the workplace - allowing for optimal work satisfaction and performance.

2.    Breaking Down Stereotypes

Mentoring can help break down stereotypes and biases that may exist between different generations. Younger generations are typically seen as 'lazy' by older generations while the older generations may be viewed as 'slow and old-fashioned'. It is important to not let preconceived notions about a certain generation limit one's ability to collaboratively work together in an organisation. By working closely together, employees can gain a deeper understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses and learn to appreciate each other's contributions to the organisation without diminishing each other's work.

Mentoring is an effective way to bridge the generational gap in the workplace. By pairing older and younger employees together, they can learn from each other, break down stereotypes, and create a culture of learning and growth. Organisations that invest in mentoring programs can benefit from improved communication, increased employee engagement, and a more cohesive and productive work environment.

More information on attributes of different generations and WHY closing the generational gap is essential: https://alis.alberta.ca/succeed-at-work/make-your-work-life-more-satisfying/bridge-the-generation-gaps-at-work/#:~:text=Bridge%20the%20generation%20gaps%20for,to%20learn%20from%20each%20other