Today’s business success depends on creating a corporate culture that actively and consistently demonstrates respect and inclusion for its diverse employee population. It is critically important for leaders to understand the impact of a multi-generational workforce. A Baby Boomer and a Millennial, for example, see work very differently as a part of their lives and require a different approach from their leaders.
This four part Success Series will present information about generational differences in the workplace and how to lead employees accordingly.
Part One: What’s A Generation and What do Leaders Need to Remember?
Typically, a generation is defined as a period of about 20 years during which a set of humans are born, grow up and begin to have children of their own. Culturally, a generation is a defined period of time during which the people share common attitudes and similar social and economic events.
Today’s workplace generations are:
- Matures / The Greatest Generation (b.1922-45)
- Baby Boomers (b.1946-64)
- Generation X (b. 1965-80)
- Generation Y / Millennials (b. 1980-2000)
For leaders, it is important to remember:
- A team member’s generation influences behavior, but does not excuse it; don’t confuse character or behavior issues with generational traits
- Preferences may not be given based on generation (age discrimination)
- Leadership style and training approach may be adjusted according to communication preferences and learning styles
- Policy and performance expectations apply to everyone, but how they are presented may change
- Do not apply broad generational stereotypes to team members; do not allow those stereotypes to influence decisions
- Talent recruitment and retention is not a one-size-fits-all process. What may draw a Boomer in may do the exact opposite for a Gen X-er.
Below is the rest of this Success Series’ topics. Be sure to check back each week or subscribe here to have new posts delivered to your inbox.
Part Two: Life Events, Characteristics and Values of Each Workplace Generation (coming May 14)
Part Three: Workplace Traits and Keys to Success: Matures & Boomers (coming May 21)
Part Four: Workplace Traits and Keys to Success: Gen X and Millennials (coming May 28)
Can I help? If you want to have a conversation about leading your multi-generational workforce, click here to send me an email. I’d love to chat! -El
Photo credit: Generation by Knoll, Creative Commons License
