How-To: Generational Learning

Generational learning in the workplace is a crucial aspect of contemporary organizations. In these organizations, different generations work together, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. Bridging the generation gap and promoting effective generational learning can help an organization become more flexible and resilient. But what are the right ingredients for this process?

Blend Playfulness and Depth

Promoting informal conversations both on and off the workplace can strengthen the bond between employees and make generational learning more appealing. It is important that these conversations are not limited to work-related topics. Respect and active listening are essential.

Example: At Rakoo, a daily communal lunch is held where employees can freely discuss topics unrelated to work, such as weekend plans, news, and personal interests. These informal moments create the opportunity to get to know each other better, contributing to a positive atmosphere and making generational learning enjoyable.

Facilitate Learning

It is essential to ensure that employees from different generations actually have the opportunity to learn from each other. This can be achieved through short workshops, presentations, or interactive sessions in which employees share their knowledge and interests. The organization's online academy can also be utilized for knowledge sharing.

Example: Organizing a brainstorming session to discuss employees' interests and knowledge. At Rakoo, this led to the discovery of a shared interest in wine, prompting a colleague to create an e-learning module about wine that was added to the online academy.

Keep the Conversation Going

Differences between generations in the workplace can lead to misunderstandings and tensions. It is important to openly discuss these issues and ensure that each generation feels heard.

Example: By discussing expectations and perceptions of what constitutes good work, organizations can reduce conflicts between generations. Encouraging open dialogue helps promote understanding and respect.

Feedback Culture

Lastly, it is essential to foster a culture of open and continuous feedback. People in the workplace strive for constant self-improvement. The online academy offers e-learning modules on providing feedback.

Example: By providing employees with the opportunity to give and receive continuous feedback, the organization promotes a culture of improvement. This goes beyond annual performance reviews and provides employees with the chance to grow constantly and help others do the same. This approach not only encourages knowledge sharing but also generational learning.

Workplace Engagement

An important step in promoting generational learning is creating moments for employees to exchange thoughts, for instance, during team meetings. Encourage employees to discuss problems or challenges they encounter in their work during these meetings.

Example: Imagine an employee facing challenges while dealing with a customer. By sharing this issue in a team meeting, there is room for a productive discussion, and a joint decision can be made on the best approach to address this problem. Other team members can then integrate this knowledge into their own work, both now and in the future.

In summary, generational learning is a powerful way to leverage and nurture knowledge and experience within an organization. By adding the right ingredients, such as workplace engagement, informal conversations, learning opportunities, open communication, and a feedback culture, generational learning can not only become easier but also more engaging, ultimately benefiting the organization.