Did you know there are 5 generations of employees who are currently in the UK workforce? Do you know what your own generation is?

• Traditionalists—born 1925 to 1945

• Baby Boomers—born 1946 to 1964

• Generation X—born 1965 to 1980

• Millennials—born 1981 to 2000

• Generation Z—born 2001 to 2020

Each have their own characteristics, traits and beliefs – which as an employer can make managing these different groups challenging.

Applying different management techniques

A recent, June 2025, study revealed that Gen Z workers are less likely to speak out to their employers compared to older generations. The study found that only 56% of Gen Z workers would raise a concern about health a safety, compared to 86% of those aged 55 and over.

67% of Gen Z said they would raise concerns about witnessing sexual harassment at work, compared with 76% of those aged 25-34 (millennials).

Why are younger workers more hesitant to speak out? The most likely explanation is fear about job security, and uncertainty about the processes that will follow and the implications for them.

How can you manage multi-generational workforces?

• Communication – make policies, consequences and expectations clear to all

• Adapt style to reach diverse groups – remember different motivational factors

• Prioritise culture and psychological safety

• Recognise the nuances of each generation – different life experiences and priorities

• Ensure employees know how to report concerns, and who to

• Lead by example – demonstrate respect, values and good practices from the top

Avoid generational stereotypes

33% of employers believe there is a lack of “work readiness” in Gen Z – predicting a skills shortage over the next 5 years due to the impact this will have on the workforce.

Given these predictions, equality, diversity and inclusion should be on all company’s agenda – however only 84% of employers feel that EDI is important to their organisation, with 50% thinking it will become more important in the next 5 years. Surprisingly, 23% of employers do not have policies or initiatives to support underrepresented groups (including disabled and neurodiverse staff), or those returning to work.

Support

We will run a Lunch and Learn session to discuss multi-generational working – please look out for the date and time to be announced.

In the meantime, if you need any support reviewing your own policies, EDI initiatives, or managers training, please get in touch (team@hrprime.co.uk).