Multiple Generations in the Workplace:

Making Sense of It and Making It Work

Let’s Play

Multi-Generational challenges vs. benefits

Objectives

Understand the

Tendencies

Tendency #1:

Leave things to chance

Tendency #2: Rely only on stereotypes

events & influences world war II the depression tarzan the mccarthy era mickey mouse

vietnam civil rights act

tv dinners watergate

barbie dolls

hiv/aids the simpsons challenger disaster ronald reagan the brady bunch

columbine 24/7 access

cellphones 9/11

facebook

T B G M

growing up hard work respected elders children seen not heard little feedback (negative) limited “activities”

large class sizes question authority but

respect position “you are lucky to be

here”

latchkey kids distrust authority want feedback autonomy & freedom testing began with them

participation consulted by adults celebrate diversity

individualized options doing over knowing

the world is 24/7

T B G M

learning new is not always better structure & schedules want clear expectations memorize the basics

“big picture” want recognition

team oriented explore different views

follow instructions

self-paced, independent have fun while learning informal environments hate group work want feedback

instant gratification frequent rewards

look for better, faster way skill development enjoy group work

T B G M

Tendency #3: Accept and reinforce societal messages

Leave things to chance Rely only on stereotypes

Accept and reinforce societal messages

Tendencies

With a Partner Which tendencies do you

currently see in your organization?

Identify the

Similarities

Basic Human Needs

Autonomy Celebration

Integrity Acknowledgement

Interdependence Respect

Play Nurturance

Values Family

Respect Trustworthy leaders who will coach them

dedication conformity delayed reward duty before pleasure hard work

health and wellness involvement

personal gratification optimism

work

balance techno-literacy informality self-reliance pragmatism

civic duty confidence

diversity sociability

street smarts

T B G M

Core Values

Preferences Clash Points:

Communication, Training, Rewards, Career Goals

3R’s & 3C’s Respected, Recognized, Remembered

Coached, Consulted, Connected

In a Small Group Which needs, values, and/or preferences are potential

areas of opportunity in your organization?

Learn from

Others

At Your Table Review the examples

Identify the focus areas Discuss the pros/cons

Evaluate the applicability

Take Action!

In the next 90 days, what 3 steps

will you take to leverage the benefits of generational diversity?

Starting Points

Objectives

Multiple Generations in the Workplace:

Making Sense of It and Making It Work

Thank You! Julie Binter

julie.binter@asu.edu