Unwritten Rules: The Hidden Generation Gap in Malta’s Workplaces

Picture this: a bustling office in the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta. You’re in your 20s, fresh out of university, eager to make your mark. You stride in, coffee in hand, ready to tackle the day. Your colleague, a seasoned employee in their 50s, looks at you, bewildered. “It’s not even 8 am,” they mutter, “and you’re already on your second coffee?” Welcome to the workplace generation gap, a chasm not of age, but of unwritten rules.

Unwritten Rules: The Hidden Barrier

Every workplace has them – the unspoken norms that guide behaviour, from when to take lunch to how to address the boss. These rules are often passed down through generations of employees, evolving with each new hire. But what happens when these rules aren’t explicitly stated? That’s when the generation gap becomes a silent barrier, tripping up young employees and frustrating their older counterparts.

Take, for instance, the humble email. For the younger generation, it’s a quick, informal way to communicate. For older employees, it’s a formal tool, used sparingly and with careful consideration. A young employee might send a quick “Hey, can we meet?” email to their boss, only to receive a stern reply about appropriate communication channels. It’s not about age, it’s about understanding the unspoken rules.

Malta’s Multigenerational Workforce

Malta, with its mix of traditional and modern, boasts a multigenerational workforce. Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z all work side by side, each bringing their unique perspectives and work ethics. According to a 2021 survey by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, the average age of employees in Malta is 41. That’s a lot of generations in one workplace.

Consider the local tech industry, a hub of startups and innovation. Here, the generation gap is stark. Young employees, fresh from coding bootcamps, are used to flexible hours and casual dress codes. Older employees, with decades of experience in traditional offices, expect punctuality and formal attire. It’s not about right or wrong, it’s about understanding where the other person is coming from.

Bridging the Gap

So, how do we bridge this gap? Communication is key. Open dialogue about workplace norms can help younger employees understand the unspoken rules, while older employees can learn to adapt to new ways of working. Companies can also play a role, providing training on workplace etiquette and fostering a culture of inclusivity.

In Malta, initiatives like the Malta Employers’ Association’s “Workplace of the Future” project are encouraging employers to embrace change and foster intergenerational understanding. It’s a step in the right direction, but it’s up to each of us to make sure we’re not tripping over unwritten rules.

As Malta’s workforce continues to evolve, let’s ensure that the generation gap remains a challenge, not a chasm. After all, our differences are our strength. It’s time we start us them, rather than letting them divide us.