Our Latest Issue Brief

engaging the 21st century multi-generational workforce: finding from the age & generations study

by Marcie Pitt-Catsouphes, Christina Matz-Costa

Since engaged workers are those who are willing to "go above and beyond" to get the work done, it is essential for employers to understand the implications of engagement as well as the factors that enhance engagement in today's multi-generational workforce. This analysis of the Age & Generations Study data identifies age as an important driver of employee engagement. Since enhanced employee engagement benefits both employees and employers, promoting employee engagement is one indicator of the effectiveness of employer approaches to talent management. Contrary to myths about older employees disengaging as they age, older employees report higher levels of engagement even when many other factors (such as physical health) are taken into consideration.



Whether we are in a period of economic growth or economic downturn, employee engagement is a win-win for employers and for their employees. Managers and supervisors should consider adopting a customized approach to employee engagement and recognize that different opportunities and resources might affect the engagement of employees of different ages.

Read/Download the Issue Brief here »

us national publications

Issue Briefs
Explore a single age-work-related question in-depth, and include highlights from the recent relevant research on the topic.

Research Highlights
Summarize key findings from center research. Companion Executive Summaries are often available as well.

Fact Sheets
Each fact sheet provides a sampling of recent facts and statistics on a single age-work issue. The facts are drawn from high-quality reports and studies published by reliable organizations and journals, as well as from the center’s own research.

Legal and Research Summary Sheets 

Explore and synthesize complex legal, policy, and research aspects of critical age-work-related issues.

Phased Retirement (August 2007)