TROY, MI--(Marketwire - August 26, 2009) - Kelly Services, Inc. (
NASDAQ:
KELYA) (
NASDAQ:
KELYB) -- Any workplace with a broad spectrum of generations is likely to
face management challenges in juggling the needs of different age groups. A
recent international survey finds that issues such as communication style
and monetary awards can be the source of marked differences in attitude
among the three main workplace generations -- Gen Y (aged 18-29), Gen X
(aged 30-47), and baby boomers (aged 48-65).
The survey, by global workforce solutions leader Kelly Services, finds that
Gen Y is increasingly using instant messaging, yet all age groups
overwhelmingly prefer face-to-face communication. In regard to rewards and
bonuses, older workers prefer non-cash items such as time off work and
training opportunities. Gen Y have a clear preference for monetary rewards.
The findings are part of the
Kelly Global Workforce Index, which obtained
the views of approximately 100,000 people in 34 countries covering North
America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
Kelly Services Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, George
Corona, says the task of managing the generations may not be as complex as
many managers, and some employees, believe.
"By addressing issues such as internal communications and compensation, it
is possible to reap the benefits of managing a diverse group of people, and
generate conditions that can help organizations to flourish," Corona says.
Results also show 42 percent of respondents say differences between Gen Y,
Gen X and baby boomers actually improve workplace productivity, while 24
percent say they interfere with productivity, and 23 percent say they make
no difference.
More than a third (42 percent) of all employees say they have experienced
intergenerational conflict in the workplace, while almost three quarters
admit to adapting the way they communicate with colleagues from a different
generation in order to avoid problems.
Across the generational divide, there is recognition of the role of
management in addressing critical issues. Baby boomers are overwhelmingly
concerned at the failure of management to reward and manage their
generation in a way that meets their needs and expectations.
Among the key findings of the survey:
-- Baby boomers are the most tolerant of generational differences and the
most positive about the productivity benefits;
-- Gen X are more likely to have experienced intergenerational conflict
than either Gen Y or baby boomers;
-- Gen Y are more likely to go out of their way to adapt their
communication style in dealing with colleagues from a different generation.
"Often what can appear a source of friction between the generations can
also be a source of creativity and growth when it is harnessed and
cultivated," Corona says.
"It is important that issues such as management style, communication
technique and remuneration structure are not allowed to become the focus
for dissent among different generational groups. By recognizing the varying
needs of people at different stages of their life and career, managers can
address issues and actually enhance performance," Corona concludes.
For more information on the survey results, visit
www.kellyservices.com
About the Kelly Global Workforce Index
The Kelly Global Workforce Index is a survey revealing opinions about work
and the workplace from a generational viewpoint. Results of the current
findings from across Kelly's global operations in North America, Europe,
and Asia Pacific will be published throughout 2009 in a series of six
releases.
About Kelly Services
Kelly Services, Inc. (
NASDAQ:
KELYA) (
NASDAQ:
KELYB) is a world leader in
workforce management services and human resources solutions. Kelly offers
a comprehensive array of temporary staffing, permanent placement,
outsourcing, and consulting services. Kelly serves clients around the
globe and provides employment to 650,000 employees annually. Revenue in
2008 was $5.5 billion. Visit
www.kellyservices.com.
Contact Information: Media contacts:
Asia Pacific
Jaquilin Ang
Kelly Services
+65 6494 6066
Jaquilin_ang@kellyservices.com.sg
Europe
Tamara Achba
Kelly Services
+41 32 737 1829
Tamara.achba@kellyservices.eu
North America
Judith Clark
Kelly Services
+1 248 244-5362
judith_clark@kellyservices.com