Does Gamification Only Work on Millennials and Gen-Z?

Are your workers too old to play a game? Nope.

Many employers mistakenly believe that gamification in the workplace will only appeal to a younger generation, but they’re wrong. Companies often think that gamification will only work for Millennials or “younger” generations however, research proves that playing games is something every generation in the workforce enjoys – and has even been done for 100’s of years.

Failing to create a workplace that is enjoyable (and maybe a little bit fun?) will most definitely result in low employee engagement, regardless of if a worker is a millennial or a baby boomer!.

Now for the good news. Using strategies like gamification can help not just increase employee engagement, but it can also increase performance.

Check it out…

Gamification Defined

Gamification is the process of leveraging game mechanics into non-game activities. Games and game elements have been used to help teach new languages, make fitness more enjoyable (Shoutout to Peloton) and motivate consumers to fly more places (frequent flyer miles). Points, badges and leaderboards are all examples of elements of gamification that can be used to motivate and inspire users. 

Gamification is by no means a new concept even though the term itself may have been coined fairly recently. Gamification as a concept has existed in many areas of life for as long as civilization has existed. 

What generation am I?

Here is a quick overview of all this generation stuff. It can be confusing.

Today’s global workforce is made up of five different generations:

• Traditionalist (76 to 99 years old)
• Baby Boomers (57 to 75 years old)
• Generation X (41 to 56 years old)
• Generation Y / Millennials (26 to 40 years old)
• Generation Z (12 to 25 years old)

Traditionalists have been around the longest. While many may be in retirement, this group is still represented in the workforce and active.

Got a problem with a millennial? Blame their parents, meet the Baby Boomers! Baby Boomers are in their 50’s to ’60s and were born between 1940 and 1960. They are known as optimistic, idealistic and inner-directed. Most are early adopters to technology, and some others might not even have a smartphone. 

What’s up Gen-X! Generation Xers are born between the 1960s and early 1980s and are usually known as pretty good when it comes to technology. They have grown up during a tech boom and have kept up-to-date with the latest iPhone while continuing to expand their knowledge of technology so they can remain employable (and cool). 

Generation Y aka the millennial. This group was born in the 80s and is typically known for demanding feedback, expecting instant gratification (thanks social media), and are lifelong learners. They have grown up using every type of technology and quickly adapt to anything new. They aren’t so bad.

Generation Z is the newest addition to the workforce and includes anyone born from the late 90s to the present. They are known as agents of change and are defined by their open-mindedness, social impact and inclusion. Gen-Z is most interested in authenticity and the upholding of their values. They are digital natives, born into digital life. 

Ok. The history lesson is complete.

Can gamification only engage workers who grew up on gaming?

No. Let me explain.

Let’s first begin by clarifying that gamification is not just about playing meaningless games. This misunderstanding is why some may jump to conclusions about how they feel about using games at work.

The best games bring together fun, competition, community, interaction, and rewards. Sounds like something that would make any workplace better. 

Everyone, no matter their age, wants to feel prepared, connected and excited about the job they perform every day. They want to feel confident. They want to feel they are helping their team on their mission. And, they want to feel recognized and appreciated. Is this starting to sound like something that happens in a great game? These wants and needs also do not change based on race, culture, age or gender. 

Increase Employee Engagement (and Performance) with Gamification

Now that you know introducing gamification into your workplace works, it is time to consider where to do it. Today, only 15% of global workers are engaged at work. This lack of excitement about their job has a direct impact on worker productivity and a company’s performance. But, it also affords you and your business an opportunity to change the game.

Here are a few ways leading brands use gamification to increase worker engagement (and performance), regardless of their generation:

1. Gamify new hire onboarding
2. Gamify new product training
3. Gamify annual safety and compliance training
4. Gamify diversity, equity and inclusions training
5. Gamify leadership training
6. Gamify software training

You get the point. You can turn anything into a game.

Level Up Your Workforce Using 1Huddle

Want to know how 1Huddle can help you turn anything into a game?

At 1Huddle, we offer cloud-based employee gamification software that can easily adapt to any employee training or gamification strategy at your workplace. You can quickly customize your content for a seamless experience so your employees can access their training anywhere, anytime. You can even use our gamification platform to measure performance and make key business decisions.

Want to learn more about how 1Huddle can help you level up your own workforce? 

Cool.

Request a demo today.