This post is also available in: Deutsch
In our Diversity@NORMA series, we highlight the diversity of personalities that work at NORMA Group. In 2023, the focus is on the various generations of NORMA Group employees. Colleagues from different departments, countries and age groups report on the experiences they have had working with older and younger colleagues and how a cross-generational exchange of information and ideas takes place at NORMA Group.
In this interview, Joel Fu, Application Engineer at the site in Shanghai, China, talks about his experiences with cross-generational exchange in the company.
Joel, what do you see as the biggest differences between members of your generation and people who are both younger and older?
Older people already have a lot of experience and often react more calmly and collectedly when something unexpected happens.
With younger colleagues, I have noticed that they are more open in their approach to their fellow human beings. They are more broad-minded and have fewer prejudices.
Joel on vacation in Xinjiang, China.
Are there also differences between the generations and their approaches to work?
Young people tend to be more efficient when it comes to solving challenges, but at the same time bold enough to find new resources to deal with the challenges they face. Older people, on the other hand, tend to rely to a greater extent on existing resources rather than seeking new ones – they fall back on what is proven and familiar.
We may all work different – but we all have a common interest in ensuring NORMA Group’s success.
Would you say that there is an intercultural exchange at NORMA Group?
In everyday work, there are always opportunities for communication between the generations. When I started at NORMA Group, for example, I participated in various workshops in our department.
“There is always the possibility for open discussions.”
This was a great opportunity for young and old to share ideas, hear each other’s perspectives, grow together as a team and find ways to improve processes.
What did you manage to learn from your older colleagues?
My older colleagues have taught me to look beyond the obvious and consider a problem from a range of different perspectives. Both of these considerations have helped me to solve challenges in everyday work more easily. In addition, the calm way my older colleagues do their jobs is something I should learn from.
Have you experienced a highlight at NORMA Group that relates to the topic of a cross-generational exchange?
I usually exchange ideas and information a lot with my older team members who come from different departments and different management levels. They are both mentors and friends, whether we are dealing with work-related issues or everyday personal life.
Especially with regard to job-related topics, they take into account young people’s point of view before planning their work. That is kind of a little daily highlight for me – I’m very impressed with it.
