Generations have the same workplace priorities, research finds.

• Position: News & Numbers

For some time, leaders have struggled to understand the differences among generations in the workplace. In an attempt to simplify the landscape, different age groups have been reduced to caricatures with incomplete generalizations, according to the authors of "Workplace Priorities, Beliefs and Practices: A Generational Snapshot." Their conclusion is based on research suggesting that when it comes to workplace priorities and beliefs, our similarities among generations are much greater than the differences.

The five highest-rated workplace priorities across all generations are:

* Having a boss you respect and trust

* Interesting work

* Fair treatment and respect

* Achievement and accomplishment

* Learning and growth

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In exploring beliefs held by employees, the study uncovered more similarities. For instance, the following three statements appear as one of the five most strongly held beliefs for all four groups studied:

* One of a manager's fundamental roles is to support his/her employees'...