If your workplace presents a diversity of generations, you probably know that underneath the mutual respect there is always some stereotyping of what each generation represents — millennials may be seen as independent and tech savvy, for example.
There also could be some reluctance to recognise what the decades of experiences of the older generation mean in daily work. Do many jobs need 20 years of experience to be done?
The answer may be, “no.” But although the number of years after a certain experience is acquired in certain field doesn’t really matter, having been in the workforce for a longer period could help in some professional aspects that are not related specifically to the technical side of how the job gets done.
This experience — similar to the knowledge and skills gained over the years — may not be documented or make an entry on a job application, but it does present itself in how a person handles stressful work situations, connections and coworkers. In particular, the following points can be consolidated by the number of years a person has been in business.
Flexibility
Having exposure to many situations and seeing the outcome of various scenarios over the years help people be more flexible. Of course, flexibility is not limited to a particular age group, but generally experience can help people become resilient and unfazed under pressure, in dealing with office politics, etc.
This flexibility could be inspired by staff members’ past experiences or reassurance that however things work out, they would be in a good position. Once status is established and people are not struggle to prove themselves right and trustworthy of recognition, they may show their ability to compromise, let go or take the high road when needed.
Connections
There is no question that people who stick longer with their careers are capable of building a solid network of connections — something that is essential in many positions and jobs. And these connections are not limited to a list of clients, but they include former coworkers, industry contacts and professionals in related businesses and industries.
Even when jobs where connections don’t seem to matter in terms of generating leads or sales, having staff members who have industry connections can help in terms of how these coworkers can tap into the knowledge of their connections when needed. Businesses don’t thrive in a vacuum, and small businesses in particular can get a boost from whom they associate with and resort to for professional help that doesn’t necessarily come at a consulting fee.
Balance
Just like history is a guide to the present and the future, having staff members whose experience spans decades past and know how the current circumstances have evolved can provide a good balance in terms of perspective and vision.
Of course, businesses can learn all about the past from reports and books, but having some who can save less experienced staff members from falling into pitfalls similar to those of the past can be invaluable. The best workplaces combine this knowledge with ambition to make sure that new initiatives are rooted in reality and shaped by knowledge as well as forward-thinking.
Mentoring
More experienced staff members can help newcomers shape their professional path through mentoring. Again, this goes well beyond simply a transfer of knowledge or skills. It focuses on coaching and helping new staff members figure out what is the best for them professionally and what suits and fulfils their aspirations.
Mentors are not necessarily the oldest and most experienced staff members. They must have the ability to work with others, guide and understand individual aspirations. Having a long experience does help in fulfilling just one key requirement.
The writer, a former Gulf News Business Features Editor, is a Seattle-based editor.
Experience rather than age
Experience helps with flexibility
Solid connections are built over the years
Learning from the past can save businesses
Newcomers can benefit from mentoring
— R.O.
