From Gen Z to Boomers: Why Business Acumen is Every Employee’s Priority 

  • Customize Onboarding Content: Develop materials that cater to varying learning preferences, whether it’s interactive digital content for Gen Z or deeper, discussion-based modules for Baby Boomers. 
  • Leverage Technology for Flexibility: Use learning management systems to offer flexibility, enabling employees to engage with business content at their own pace. 
  • Foster Mentorship and Networking: Encourage multigenerational mentorship programs, where employees share insights, deepening their understanding of the business from multiple perspectives. 
  • Continuous Learning Opportunities: Go beyond onboarding—integrate business learning into long-term career development plans. 
  • Gather Feedback and Iterate: Collect feedback after onboarding to continuously refine the process, ensuring it remains relevant to all employees. 
  • Highlight Career Pathways: Show how understanding the business aligns with personal career growth, fostering a sense of ownership and long-term engagement. 
  • Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where employees are empowered to ask questions, share their insights, and engage in open discussions about the organization’s business. This helps bridge knowledge gaps and build trust across generational lines. 
  • Inclusive Culture: Foster a sense of inclusion by ensuring every generation feels heard and valued in discussions about the company’s direction. 
  • Conclusion: Business Acumen as a Strategic Imperative 

    Our research reveals a key insight: business acumen is a unifying force in today’s multigenerational workforce. When integrated effectively into onboarding, it aligns employees with the company’s mission, empowers them with knowledge, and builds a foundation for productivity, innovation, and long-term success. 

    For PeopleOps (HR) leaders, the task is clear: prioritize business acumen as a strategic component of onboarding, not just a “nice to have” but a critical building block. By doing so, organizations can cultivate a knowledgeable, engaged, and future-ready workforce that thrives in today’s fast-paced, evolving business environment.