A MULTI-GENERATIONAL work force presents opportunities for older workers to compensate for the shortcomings of millennials and Generation Z, and vice versa, LinkedIn said, citing the results of its Opportunity Index 2020 study.

LinkedIn reported that while ageism may discourage older workers, various generations in the workforce present an opportunity to fill in generational skills shortcomings.

“The biggest skills gaps that we see today are soft skills among gen Z and millennials, and tech skills among the older generation. We encourage companies to hire for complementary skills and to promote collaboration and bi-directional mentorship among their workforce,” LinkedIn Asia Pacific Managing Director Olivier Legrand said.

The study took in responses from 30,000 participants across 22 markets, with 1,000 from the Philippines. Generations covered under the survey were Baby Boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964), Generation X (1965-1980), Millennials (1981-1996), and Generation Z (1997 and later).

Globally, LinkedIn said that 43% of Baby Boomers said they struggle with age in the workplace while 25% of Generation Z workers said they view the lack of work experience as a problem.

In the Philippines, LinkedIn said the youngest workers, those from Generation Z, are the most uncertain about their work prospects and are concerned with “the environment, education, and health.”

“For the first time, four generations are working together. It’s time for businesses to set aside hiring biases against age, and embrace the multigenerational workforce as an opportunity,” Mr. Legrand said. — Gillian M. Cortez

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