Most workplaces today are a mix of three distinct generations – Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964), Generation X (born 1965-1979) and Generation Y, or Millennials (born 1980-2000). Each generation brings its own particular strengths and “peculiarities” to the team. Stereotypes abound, and leaders struggle to determine how best to engage and retain team members from these three different age groups.
I personally think it’s simple: Value diversity. Recognize that each individual brings to the workplace different experiences, knowledge, belief systems, ideas, skills, communication styles, fears, hopes and dreams. No matter the age, or generation, there are differences. Certainly we can make some broad generalizations about Boomers vs. Gen Xers vs. Millennials based on the events, pop culture and technology of the world they grew up in, but we can do the same for women vs. men, other cultures vs. US culture, etc. Value diversity.
So with that in mind, here are my tips for managing and working effectively on a multi-generational team.
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- Focus on the VALUE each generation brings to the workplace.
- Acknowledge and embrace the diversity of the generations.
- Remember that it’s about talent…not age…
- Learn from the other generations on your team.
- Figure out what you have in common and start there.
- Use multiple communication streams to address each person’s style.
- Mentor and teach each other.
- Be “kind” to one another.
As Stephen Covey said, “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.”
Value diversity.
Till next time,
Karen
