Exclusive Interview: Vivekanand Manjeri, Brand Director, Dell Technologies

In an exclusive interaction with DQ Channels, Vivekanand Manjeri, Brand Director, Client Solutions Group, Dell Technologies has talked about workforce transformation and the role of technology as an enabler in today’s workforce scenario. 

Please tell us about the multi-generational workforce and how workforce transformation can enable and empower them

The workforce of today is an interesting mix of four different generations working together across different roles and responsibilities. While millennials mostly enter the workforce with high tech literacy and knowledge of the evolving technology landscape, Gen X and baby boomers have great knowledge of the soft skills needed to succeed in a corporate environment. They act as mentors to Gen Y as they learn the nuances of innovative technologies such as VR, AR, MR, etc. While it is comparatively easier for Gen Y to get accustomed to the emerging technologies that are seeping into the workplaces, it poses a challenge for the enterprise as well as Gen X and baby boomers to keep up with the pace.  According to Dell Technologies’ GenZ survey, 91% of respondents say the technology would influence job choice among similar employment offers. Newer technologies are expected at work, indicating a need for organizations to ramp up as well. While end-user experience is critical for enterprises, it is important to ensure that all generations can work harmoniously. This is where workforce transformation becomes a key factor in empowering different generations and ensuring that they have a smooth and productive work life. CIOs should pay attention to the end-user experiences for their workforce to productivity. End user-experiences is a culmination of different aspects, latest technology, and solutions to devices with top-notch security and design features which are sleek and powerful at the same time.

What are the common multi-generational workplace problems?

We believe that every challenge can be an opportunity for purposeful innovation. This is true when it comes to today’s workforce that comprises a mix of digital natives and digital immigrants. They have different expectations from their employer and their workplace, in terms of technology as well as other options such as flexible working options and interesting workspaces. In a multi-generational workplace, there could be initial problems in terms of getting used to new-age technologies or having the right kind of soft skills required to thrive in a competitive workspace environment. This is where workforce transformation comes into play, and beautifully brings together the multi-generational workforce who can work together closely towards imparting knowledge to one another.

How can we thrive in a multi-generational workplace?

According to Dell Technologies’ Gen Z Survey, ‘Gen Z is confident about their tech skills but unsure about their readiness for the workforce. Meanwhile, senior professionals worry they’ll be outpaced by Gen Z’. It is important for different generations to collaborate and transfer knowledge to each other. It becomes imperative for organizations to offer upskilling programs and training on how best to learn from one another. It is equally important to offer a platform for Gen Z to work collaboratively with older generations to help them understand the other important nuances such as soft skills, working with different kinds of people and other kinds of collaborations, skills that they have learned over the years.

Interestingly, the study also shows that ‘by 2020, Gen Z will make up 20% of a multigenerational workforce’. In order to succeed in the era of human-machine partnerships, business leaders must bridge the digital divide to unleash the power of a diverse and future-ready workforce. The common factor here is the workforce transformation that can help the workforce, as well as the enterprises, achieve the best of productivity while offering a great end-user experience.