Generational Differences Presented by: Linda Blocksom Learning & Development Manager

What was HOT when you were in high school? Bands and cars Fun Fads and trends

Session Objectives: Define values and characteristics for each generation Discuss ways to work effectively in a multi-generational workforce Introduce Idea: when thinking of generations, we focus on differences, yet we all have similarities. Across generations there are many values that remain stable as well as new characteristics from which we can learn—our similarities unite us, our differences enrich and strengthen our work and social lives. Keep in mind values that have been passed down to you and through generations as we continue the presentation.

Sweeping Generalizations Ahead!

Four Generations at Work Traditionalists Born 1922-43 Baby Boomers Born 1944-64 Millennials Born 1981-2000 Generation X Born 1965-80 Coming Soon! Generation Z 1998 - 2016

Formative years Values Effect on Workplace

Discussion Think of someone you know or have worked with who was from a generation different than yours. Was there anything about the way that person behaved that puzzled you?

Employee & Organizational Development

Veterans or Traditionalists Generations Defined Veterans or Traditionalists Born between 1922 -1945 Number about 9 million in the workforce Known for: Loyalty, traditional mindsets, and a steadfast work ethic

Traditionalists

Traditionalists’ Traits Loyalty, duty, patience, dedication, conformity, hard-working Patriotic Faith in institutions Value politeness, respect, and privacy Had a hierarchical structure

Communicating with Traditionalists Describe (tasks) from start to finish Offer detailed directions Make information organized and factual Respect their experience and listen to their stories

Generations Defined Baby Boomers Born between 1946-1964 Number about 77 million in the workforce Boomers are known for: service orientation, appreciating individuality, and championing change

Baby Boomers

Boomers’ Traits Driven, sometimes workaholics Question authority Self-actualization, involvement, change, personal growth, teamwork

Communicating with Boomers Allow them space to ‘make a difference’ Push them towards action (versus discussion…) Allow and encourage them to learn and grow Treat them as equal—not less than, not on a pedestal, and never “old” Question us when we say we are overworked

Generations Defined Generation X Born between 1965-1980 Number about 50 million in the workforce Gen X is known for: being perceptive, confident, and independent

Generation X

Generation X Traits Technologically savvy Diverse Independent & Entrepreneurial View job as “means to an end” not a way of life Can be viewed as elusive/avoidant Compartmentalizes life Less loyal to company but not to the job Skeptical, casual, ambitious, balanced, healthy, confident, secure

Communicating with Generation X Share information— keep “in the loop” Do not attempt to be something you are not Be straightforward Do not micromanage Allow for flexibility, as much as possible Prove your knowledge and credibility

Generations Defined Millennials or Generation Y Born between 1981-mid 1990’s Number about 80 million in labor force Millennials are known for: being constantly connected, optimistic, and having a teamwork orientation

Millennials

Millennials: The other side of the story o situate this premise, let us consider Millennials’ unique historic experiences. This generation came of age in a post-9/11 America primarily at war. High profile data breaches and Edward Snowden’s disclosure that America engaged in mass surveillance of its own citizens has seriously shaken young professionals’ trust in government. Additionally, both the government’s and the private sector’s reluctance to take decisive action to stymie global climate change leaves many millennials frustrated by what they see as a problem of epic proportion that has been passed along to them to handle. Lastly, Millennials are drivers of today’s movement of ethical consumerism. Their socially responsible attitudes are both despite and because of a set of crises, most notably a recession set in motion by Wall Street that was deeper than any other since the Great Depression that seriously damaged Americans’ confidence in financial, banking, and governmental institutions. Millennials want straightforwardness in what they understand to be a capricious, unstable world. Despite their reputation for laziness, they work hard and feel strongly about wanting their work to be meaningful in ways that older generations typically do not insist upon. According to the United States Treasury, millennials tend to invest in organizations that prioritize the greater good more than any previous generation. Unlike preceding generations, who were more concerned with charitable giving in traditional ways, Millennials approach the question of how to invest their time and their money more strategically  with an eye toward “social impact investing” that serves the greatest good. They are largely civic-minded and driven by their strong sense of local and global community. According to Pew Research Center, millennials are far more connected to their peers than institutional power structures and tend to be more upbeat than older generations despite much higher levels of student loan debt and unemployment. David Burstein, author of the book “Fast Future,” describes Millennials’ approach to social change as “pragmatic idealism.” He notes that this generation expresses a deep desire to improve the world and that they recognize this will require the creation of new institutions while working within existing structures.

Communicating with Millennials Provide clear direction and whole story- “Why?” *Seek and provide them with regular feedback Do not create parent/child paradigm--treat as equal adults, expect the same in return Give them something to own Let them run with their ideas Don’t know how to receive negative feedback, even if it is a No, you can’t do that…feel like they are in trouble or are getting yelled at. Don’t understand the concept of interdependence

Gen Z 1998 - 2016 Gen Z does not know a time without the internet. Does not know a time without security measures that are still new to some of us, school safety drills, guards at the door, signs about guns. This generation is worried Learning – Favor streaming content in small bites via phones or tablets. Unused to “live programming” …commercials…Easily lose focus if distractions occur, and attention spans may be lower because information is processed faster (snapchat etc.) Not interested in post grad education, have seen millennials come out of grad school with huge debt and no job to show for it. A return to entering the workforce right out of high school, will teach themselves, find a mentor, learn a trade. Most racially diverse generation ever, and therefore have a preference toward inclusion and equality, especially related to race and gender and marriage equality. More inclined to look for and get excited about bargains – much more frugal than prior generations, saw parents spend too much and lose homes because of it..

Advice for all generations Understand what balance means to each generation. Show flexibility in your communication. Value tradition as well as innovation. Provide resources to all, and encourage development.

Thank you! Peace Out!