Follow the dancing meme: intergenerational relations in the workplace

Purpose This paper aims to examine whether the stereotypes about intergenerational conflict in the workplace have any validity. Design/methodology/approach This paper is a review of the available academic literature and popular reactions to it. Findings The perception of intergenerational conflict has created its own negative dynamic that is in itself the main source of tension. Research limitations/implications By definition, the review of the literature was selective not comprehensive. Practical implications If companies can begin to understand this dynamic at work they can follow steps to eliminate it. Social implications A better understanding of the absence of meaningful differences in generational attitudes will contribute to better intergenerational collaboration. Originality/value The knowledge that intergenerational differences are small is well established in the literature but, to the author’s knowledge, this is one of the first attempts to explore its popular ramifications.