Last updated: November 2026
Did you know that today’s workplace brings together people of different generations, each with their own experiences and perspectives?
A multigenerational workforce offers valuable opportunities for people to share knowledge, learn from one another and build stronger working relationships. However, differences in experience, communication and behavioural preferences can sometimes lead to misunderstandings.
Read on to discover how Everything DiSC® can help bridge generational differences and create more effective working relationships.
Generational Diversity in the Workplace
In a time when diversity and inclusion are a priority for many organisations, generational diversity can sometimes be overlooked. People of different ages bring a range of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences to work. When these are understood and valued, they can contribute to a more inclusive and effective workplace.
However, it is important not to assume that people behave in a particular way simply because of their age. Research suggests that differences between generations are often more complex than common stereotypes imply. Individual experiences, personal values and working preferences all play a part.
Chip Conley, former Airbnb executive, explored the value of intergenerational learning in his TED Talk, What baby boomers can learn from millennials at work – and vice versa. He highlights the importance of sharing knowledge and wisdom between people of different ages.
As Conley explains, people can benefit from creating opportunities to learn from one another, rather than allowing differences to become barriers.
How can you bridge generational differences at work?
Everything DiSC® can help people understand their own behavioural preferences and appreciate those of their colleagues. While age and experience can shape our perspectives, DiSC focuses on individual behaviour rather than making assumptions based on generational labels.
People often ask:
- Do people’s DiSC styles change as they get older?
- Are there differences between generations in DiSC styles?
Wiley’s research indicates that age accounts for less than 1% of the variation in DiSC styles. This suggests that age has very little influence on a person’s DiSC style.
DiSC therefore provides a useful framework for helping people connect across generations. By understanding their own style and recognising the preferences of others, individuals can develop more effective ways of communicating and working together.
How can Everything DiSC help different generations work together?
Imagine a team made up of two Millennials, a Generation X colleague and a Baby Boomer. They may have different experiences and perspectives, and could find it difficult to connect.
However, these differences may not be down to age alone. Through Everything DiSC, team members might discover that they have different behavioural styles, such as S, CD or D. This insight can help them see one another from a new perspective. Instead of focusing on age or perceived differences, they can explore what each person brings to the team. Everything DiSC provides practical strategies that help people adapt their communication, understand different priorities and build stronger working relationships.
As Chip Conley puts it, business is fundamentally human to human. Understanding people is therefore essential to effective collaboration.
Building Stronger Relationships Across Generations
Everything DiSC helps people develop greater self-awareness and understand the people around them. It encourages individuals to appreciate similarities, value differences and adapt how they work together. By creating opportunities for people of different ages and experiences to share their knowledge, organisations can build a culture where learning flows in both directions. Whether someone is early in their career or brings decades of experience, everyone has something valuable to contribute.
To learn more about how Everything DiSC can help people build more effective relationships at work, explore the Everything DiSC Workplace® profile or get in touch with our team.
