Section 3: Realising Workforce Potential
Organisations need to manage multigenerational expectations
For the first time, workplaces span five generations, from Gen Z to the Silent Generation. The number of payrolled employees aged 65+ rose by 6.3% between May 2023 and May 2024, reaching 1.2 million — the highest recorded level (Gov.UK). This reflects a broader pattern of experienced workers staying in or re-entering the workforce, challenging organisations to address long-standing biases.
0%
of HR leaders actively promote intergenerational teamwork
While 75% of HR leaders actively promote intergenerational teamwork, 96% agree that it is crucial for organisational success. By combining older employees' institutional knowledge with younger colleagues' fresh perspectives, multigenerational teams can become a powerful competitive advantage.
0%
agree that it is crucial for organisational success
Age-related discrimination remains a significant barrier. AARP’s 2024 research found that 6 in 10 workers aged 50+ face age-related prejudice, with women facing the most significant challenges.
Three-quarters of women have encountered age-based discrimination during their careers, with incidents peaking in early and later career stages (Women of Influence, 2024). In UK fund management, for example, women aged 50–64 account for just 8% of employees, despite making up 41% of the broader workforce. These inequities demand urgent, targeted interventions to create equitable opportunities for experienced workers.
At the same time, younger generations bring their own complexities.
Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen X increasingly expect workplace support. Mental health support is a top priority for Millennials (94%), Gen X (92%), and Gen Z (90%), compared to 84% for Baby Boomers and 80% for the Silent Generation.
0%
Millennials
0%
Gen X
0%
Gen Z
0%
Baby Boomers
Similarly, professional development expectations reveal sharp generational divides.
HR leaders report rising demands from Gen Z (75%) and Millennials (75%) for growth opportunities, far surpassing those of Gen X (59%), Baby Boomers (47%), and the Silent Generation (51%). Addressing these priorities is vital to retaining younger talent while maintaining engagement among older employees.
0%
Gen Z
0%
Millennials
0%
Gen X
0%
Baby Boomers
0%