Different perspectives, one team: the benefits of multigenerational workplaces
As part of this year’s Global Intergenerational Week, each day has a focus on a particular theme and yesterday I wrote about the importance of creating and supporting community spaces that bring together people of all ages [link to blog].
Today the focus is employment, and the benefits of age diversity in workplaces, which are one of the most common – and often overlooked – types of everyday intergenerational spaces.
There is a wide range of evidence highlighting the positive impact of multigenerational teams, which tend to be more resilient, more innovative and better equipped to respond to changing needs.
Each generation brings something unique to their workplace, including experience and institutional knowledge – both internal and external – as well as offering different perspectives on things like problem-solving or managing risks effectively.
Blending fresh thinking with proven practice and sharing learning across generations helps teams to adapt more quickly and be more responsive, often a crucial element of success.
Mentoring has a key role to play in supporting this and often brings additional value in terms of offering benefits to both the mentor and mentee, something highlighted by the ‘DUO for a Job’ scheme.
This is an international programme built on intergenerational exchange. DUO for a Job pairs young jobseekers from a migrant background with volunteer mentors aged 50 and over.
Over a six‑month period, the pairs meet weekly, building meaningful relationships grounded in trust, shared learning, and mutual respect.
The impact works in both directions, with young people gaining guidance, confidence, and access to networks, while older mentors stay active, share their knowledge and experience and feel valued for what they bring.
DUO for a Job has been running since 2013 and operates in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. In 2025, the programme supported more than 2,000 duos and more than 7 out of 10 young people had a positive outcome (a job, internship or training). 80% of mentors also go on to start a further mentoring programme after their first duo.
The impact of the programme illustrates how intergenerational relationships can improve employment outcomes for young people, while also enriching the lives of older volunteers.
And more than that, by connecting people across generations, and across cultures, DUO for a Job strengthens social cohesion, reduces prejudice, and builds more inclusive communities.
Harnessing the strengths of every generation doesn’t just build stronger, more resilient and more responsive organisations, it’s also essential to create workplaces and societies where everyone has opportunities to participate, crucial to support us live and age well.
