Right here in Jersey, we’ve long admired steady craftsmanship and learned from years of hard graft. But today, our teams span generations—from seasoned boomers to nimble zoomers, with AI tools nudging us all out of our comfort zones. It’s a multigenerational mash-up, and frankly, it’s high time we tackled it head-on.
The Situation in a Nutshell
Gen Z and Baby Boomers (the Boomers) share only one thing: a paycheck. Born in very different worlds, Boomers prize hierarchy, loyalty, and gradual mastery. Gen Zs? They demand flexibility, digital fluency, and purposeful work. Pull them together and you’ve got potential miscommunication—unless HR steps in.
What’s Changing
Organisations are using reverse mentoring and blended learning to close the generation gap. Younger employees show older colleagues the ropes in AI and digital tools, while Boomers share wisdom, polish and professional gravitas. The result? A two-way street of trust and skill share.
Why It Matters for Jersey
We’re not talking big UK corporates here—but local businesses, government bodies and Island institutions. Gen Zs entering our workforce are already digitally native, expect flexibility, and value authenticity and sustainability. Boomers still hold a wealth of institutional memory—often the glue that holds teams together. We need both.
Smart Moves That Work in Jersey
Pair up for Reverse Mentoring
Gen Zs teach Boomers to navigate AI tools or virtual platforms (even Teams meetings). In return, Boomers offer career insights, perspective and calm—the kind that only comes with age.
Blended Learning, the Jersey Way
Combine our tradition of good, face-to-face training (we still love a proper workshop or café meet-up) with tech (short online modules on things like ethical use of AI, or understanding chatbots). Keeps everyone engaged, no jargon, just practical.
AI as a Team Sport
Don’t let AI be the “scary new thing.” Frame it as a handy assistant: drafting routine comms, sorting data, or giving quick guidance. Introduce it at a pace that respects the old-school scepticism and the new-school hunger to explore.
Celebrate Generational Strengths
Acknowledge that Boomers bring steadiness, Gen Zs bring fresh challenge. Publicly (a simple shout-out in a team meeting goes a long way) highlight how the two complement each other.
Local Values Matter
Here in Jersey, we cherish community and integrity. Gen Zs want to work for responsible organisations. Boomers uphold the Island’s earned reputation. Link the two—say “we’re using AI not just for efficiency—but to uphold quality service to Islanders, now and for future generations.”