Unwritten Rules at Work: Bridging Malta’s Generation Gap

Picture this: You’re a fresh-faced graduate, eager to make your mark in Malta’s bustling tech scene. You stride into your new office at Tigne Point, ready to impress. But as you settle in, you notice something odd. Your colleagues, twice your age, seem to be communicating in code. They’re not speaking about algorithms or data encryption, but about something far more complex: the unwritten rules of the workplace.

Unwritten Rules: The Hidden Curriculum

Every workplace has them – the unspoken norms, the implicit expectations, the ‘way we do things around here’. These unwritten rules, often referred to as the ‘hidden curriculum’, can be a minefield for new employees. They’re not taught in universities or covered in job descriptions. Instead, they’re absorbed over time, like the smell of pastizzi wafting through the streets of Rabat.

For seasoned professionals, these rules are second nature. But for younger generations, they can be a source of confusion and frustration. A recent study by Robert Half found that 64% of Malta’s managers believe younger workers lack an understanding of workplace etiquette. But is this a generational gap, or a communication breakdown?

Generational Divide or Communication Breakdown?

Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z – each generation brings its own set of expectations and work styles to the table. Baby Boomers, raised job security and hierarchy, may expect punctuality and deference. Millennials, on the other hand, raised instant gratification and fluid career paths, may prioritize flexibility and work-life balance.

But it’s not just about age. It’s about experience. Younger workers may have grown up with technology, but they haven’t had the same opportunities to navigate office politics or understand the nuances of professional communication. Meanwhile, older workers may struggle with the pace of technological change and the shift towards remote work.

At the heart of this gap lies a communication breakdown. Older workers may assume that younger workers should ‘know’ these rules, while younger workers may feel hesitant to ask, fearing they’ll be seen as incompetent.

Bridging the Gap: A Call for Open Communication

So, what’s the solution? It’s simple, yet often overlooked: open communication. Here are a few tips to help bridge the generation gap:

• Mentoring: Pair younger workers with older mentors who can provide guidance and insight into the unwritten rules of the workplace.
• Training: Provide training on workplace etiquette, communication skills, and professional development. This isn’t just for younger workers – older workers can also benefit from training on technology and remote work.
• Feedback: Regular, constructive feedback can help younger workers understand what’s expected of them, while also providing older workers with insights into the expectations of younger generations.

Remember, every workplace is a unique ecosystem, with its own set of unwritten rules. The key is to make these rules explicit, to foster a culture of open communication, and to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their age or generation.

As Malta’s workforce continues to evolve, let’s not leave these unwritten rules to chance. Let’s write them down, discuss them openly, and create a workplace that works for everyone.