Conflict at Work: Is It a “Millennial” Problem or a “You” Problem?

Right now, our workplaces are a melting pot of four generations, each with its own distinct values and communication preferences. 

There’s Gen Z, rocking phrases like “no cap” and “rizz” as their older colleagues scratch their heads in confusion. The Gen X’ers–some of whom still believe the cloud is just a fluffy thing floating in the sky. And of course, Baby Boomers and Millennials, known to roll their eyes at each other when debating what work-life-balance really means.

With all these different generations and values in the same office, it’s no wonder workplace disagreements arise. 

But can you really blame your latest conflict with your boss or co-worker on being born in different eras? Let’s find out. 

The Generations Decoded 

Before we dive in, let’s quickly cover off the different values of each generation. See, as our True Generations test shows, age really isn’t just a number. Each of the last four generational eras that make up our modern workplaces has their own unique values and attitudes, which we can sum up as follows: 

• Gen Z (Born 1997-2012): Generation Z values authenticity, creativity and flexibility. Tech-native and liberal, they crave roles that offer independence and let them express their unique selves.
• Millennials (Born 1981-1996): Socially-conscious and team-oriented, Millennials are on a quest for purposeful work that makes a difference. They’re driven by a desire to contribute to something greater than themselves, seeking out roles where they can make a meaningful impact.
• Gen X (Born 1965-1980): Gen X is known for their entrepreneurial spirit and aversion to the 9-5 grind. They’re quick thinkers and innovators who champion work-life balance and thrive in environments that encourage problem-solving and flexibility.
• Baby Boomers (Born 1946-1964): With a legacy of hard work and dedication, Baby Boomers are the epitome of a strong work ethic. They believe in putting in the effort to achieve success, challenging social norms and making an impact through commitment and perseverance.

Is It Them or Their Generation?   

When a younger (or older) colleague frustrates you at work, it’s easy to put the blame on the fact that they don’t ‘get’ it because of generational differences.  

Sure, sometimes that may be the case. But, just as much of the time, it’s not. After all, as tests like the 16 Types and Enneagram show, people’s personalities exist on a broad spectrum—one that transcends generational boundaries. 

For example, ISTJs in the Myers and Briggs system tend to work extremely hard in a diligent, by-the-book way, whereas ENFPs are more creative and flexible with time management. 

Crucially, every person from every generation will be one of the 16 personality types—they have nothing to do with the era you're born in. And that means a clash could be a generational thing, a personality thing, or something else entirely, like you're both responding in your own special way to the dictatorial management style of your boss!  

With that in mind, here’s a look at common workplace conflicts, based on whether they’re a personality clash or a generational clash. 

#1: Openness about mental health: generational clash

Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can impact anyone from any generation. The difference, though, is each generation’s willingness to, firstly, discuss mental health problems and, secondly, seek support. 

As one international study found, Boomers have a tendency to view conversations about mental health as ‘taboo’. They weren’t brought up talking so openly about their emotions and thoughts. 

Younger generations, on the other hand, are much more mental health literate. Over half of Gen Z’s feel like they could identify a mental issue in themselves or someone else, whereas just a third of Boomers said the same. 

All of this means that, if your older colleague clams up every time you try to have a deeper conversation about how you or they really are, it’s probably a generational thing. 

#2: Different work styles: personality clash

They love to bounce from one idea to the next. You prefer to take a methodical, step-by-step approach. They hate to-do lists. You live by them. Your work styles are totally different, and it’s causing friction. 

This isn’t a generational thing; it’s a personality clash. Some people feel energized and motivated when they’re free to be creative and experiment. For others, that approach is a recipe for overwhelm and panic. 

If this sounds like the relationship between you and a co-worker, we suggest you both take the 16 Types test. It’s one of the best ways to understand how you and they like to work, so you can reach a healthy compromise that helps you both succeed.   

#3: Deciding when and where to work: generational clash 

We all know someone with an “old school” manager (hopefully it’s not you!). They refuse to let people work from home. They put a blackmark in their notes if someone’s late to the office. They prefer to meet in-person over Zoom. 

This kind of an issue? A generational clash. While many Boomers and more Gen X’s have embraced flexible and hybrid working open arms, just as many are finding it hard to adapt–and that’s because it’s a huge change for them. 

Older generations were brought up in an era of working 9-5 and watercooler chat. For many of these people, the office is where work gets done, and home is where they switch off and relax. 

That’s not to say you need to give up your hopes of hybrid work, though. If it’s important to you, it’s worth talking to your manager about what you need to feel happy. If they don’t listen, there are plenty of other companies out there that offer flexible working arrangements! 

#4: Lack of recognition: personality clash 

Working hard without being rewarded is no fun–and it’s one of the most common reasons people look for new jobs. One survey even found that a third of employees would quit their job if their employer failed to value them. 

But don't be too quick to blame generational gaps—this is more about personality than age. Sure, there's a chance your boss might be a narcissist, but more likely, they're trying to show you appreciation in a way that just doesn’t hit the mark.

Here’s the thing: there are more ways to give and receive appreciation than most people realize, and different personalities respond better to different methods. If you and your manager don’t share the same reward style, their attempts to recognize you will probably fall flat, or even go unnoticed. 

An example? Most ENTJs like to receive congratulations immediately, and publicly, and be rewarded for their efforts through promotions and leadership opportunities. Most INFPs may prefer thoughtful and personal messages of gratitude, given behind closed doors, or a simple “thank you” from a trusted individual. So if an ENTJ boss is giving recognition the way they like to receive it, while the INFP employee is silently yearning for something different, there's bound to be a disconnect.

Final words

Clashes in the workplace are complex things. Sometimes they're the result of generational differences and sometimes they're not.  It's best not to label disagreements as a "Millennial" thing or a "Gen Z" thing until you know it's a contributing factor. And even then, each person is different. There are two billion Gen Z's globally, so obviously they're not all the same!

If there's a takeaway, it is this: the best way to deal with clashes in the workplace is to start by getting curious about what makes others tick. Find out what drives them and how they like to work, then try to find common ground that will help both of you thrive. No matter your age or background, we guarantee you will have more in common than you realize—including the desire to be as happy and successful as possible at work!