Managing absence in a multi-generational workforce
Managing a multi-generational workforce brings varied skills, new ideas, different perspectives and innovation in abundance. But it can also come with its challenges, and employers need to be mindful of the different needs, preferences and working habits that each generation typically brings to the table.
Our latest eBook, How To: Manage Workplace Absence Across Generations, focuses on sickness leave, and why employees from different generations typically take sick days from work.
There are patterns and trends to be identified within each generation active in the workforce today. Gen Z, for example, are predominantly remote, hybrid and flexibility driven – less interested in the traditional 9-5 office working model. That, in part, is due to how immersed they are in the tech world – instant messaging, AI chatbots, video calls and virtual meetings are the norm.
Baby Boomers also appreciate flexibility, but for different reasons. Typically nearing the end of their career, this generation are likely to be focused on retirement plans, and may have long-term health conditions to manage.
By looking at the working habits, preferred benefits and preferences of different generations using available research, we are able to better understand why individuals take sickness absence from work.
As employers, it is vital to consider what stage of life our employees are in. Are they parents? Do they have children or aging relatives to care for? Are they saving for their first house? Are they close to retirement? Are they experiencing poor work-life balance? Are they suffering with health conditions that are age-related?
The answers to questions like these may reveal why certain groups take sickness from work. Knowing your workforce demographic can help you to offer appropriate provisions, policies and procedures for various life events, health conditions, and working preferences. Doing so can help to manage and even reduce absence, as well as improve employee wellbeing and productivity.
In this eBook, we explore the sickness rates, preferred benefits and working style of Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X and Baby Boomers. We also offer tips and guidance on what organisations can do to better manage absence in the workplace, for a happier, healthier workforce overall.
