‘Mind the gap’ is not just a phrase you hear on the London Underground; it is also a reminder of the importance of diversity in the workplace. Employees from different generations often see job roles in unique ways. Anuka Surmanidze, HR Business Partner at SOFTSWISS Managed Services, explains how embracing cognitive diversity can help us better understand Generation Z's and Millennials' work preferences. By 2030, these groups are expected to make up about 58% of the adult population as more young people enter the workforce.

Understanding Cognitive Diversity

Cognitive diversity is how people think, process information, and solve problems. It highlights how each person’s unique thinking adds something valuable to a team. When a group approaches challenges from various perspectives, they are more likely to develop creative and practical solutions. This blend of different thinking styles sparks fresh ideas and boosts productivity and innovation. In short, a team with diverse problem-solving approaches can find the right solutions faster and more efficiently. 

Ned Herrmann's Whole Brain® Thinking

Ned Herrmann's Whole Brain® Thinking is a model that helps teams understand and take advantage of different thinking styles. Herrmann’s concept is based on the idea that people typically favour one of four distinct thinking styles, each linked to various brain areas. By effectively recognising and using these styles, teams can improve their problem-solving abilities, communication, and overall performance.

1. Analytical Thinking (A Quadrant): This style is about logic and data. Analytical thinkers love details and use facts to solve problems in a structured way.
2. Practical Thinking (B Quadrant): Practical thinkers focus on getting things done efficiently. They plan, organise, and aim for precise results, keeping everyone on track.
3. Relational Thinking (C Quadrant): Relational thinkers excel at connecting with others. They are empathetic and great at building strong, collaborative teams.
4. Innovative Thinking (D Quadrant): Innovative thinkers are the idea generators. They love creativity and thrive on exploring new possibilities.

By understanding and appreciating these different thinking styles through the Whole Brain® Thinking model, you can enhance teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation within your team.

Generational Cognitive Diversity: Shaping the Workplace Across Ages

Diversity means different things to different generations, and as each has grown, their views have changed how we see society and work.

"Everyone you meet knows something you don’t." – Bill Nye

Generational diversity is about the unique attitudes, behaviours, and values from different life experiences. These differences shape how each generation approaches work and social issues.

Baby Boomers (1946–1964)
Baby Boomers saw the start of workplace diversity efforts, focusing on gender equality and opening doors for a more inclusive environment.

Generation X (1965–1980)
Gen X prioritised work-life balance and flexibility, broadening diversity discussions to include various work styles and arrangements.

Millennials (1981–1996)
Millennials have pushed diversity further, advocating for inclusivity across race, gender, sexuality, and disability, driving more comprehensive workplace inclusion programs.

At SOFTSWISS, millennials form the team's core, with the average manager being 33 years old and most employees around 30. This generational influence shapes much of the company’s culture and values.

Millennials, who grew up playing games like Super Mario, are used to getting quick rewards and feedback. In these games, finishing a level comes with instant perks like points or extra lives, giving a sense of accomplishment that keeps players engaged. This desire for immediate feedback is something to remember when communicating with this group.

Generation Z (1997–2012)

Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, has grown up in a world where they are always connected. Constant exposure to different cultures and perspectives online has given them a broad understanding of diversity, which they view as more than just a mix of nationalities. For Gen Z, diversity includes different ways of thinking, varied skills, and unique experiences. As true digital natives, they are skilled multitaskers who quickly adapt to new tech. 

Understanding that everyone approaches tasks differently – and seeing these differences as strengths rather than obstacles – can help us learn from each other and grow together.