Bridging the gap between the generations
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Millennials are by far the most talked about generation at the moment. The myths and stereotypes aimed at this generation are plentiful, but are any of them true? Even if some are true, are they any more damning (or even more positive) than the myths and stereotypes levied against any other generation?
Whether or not these myths and stereotypes are true, one thing is for sure: today’s workforce spans three generations that all need to work side by side. They are:
The Baby Boomers: Born between 1946 and 1964 (53 to 71 years old today)
Gen X: Born between 1965 and 1979 (38 to 52 years old today)
Millennials (aka Gen Y): Born between 1980 and 1994 (23-37 years old today)
How do we how do we bridge the gap between these generations and ensure our workplaces are productive and free of drama?
Listen to this lively episode in which Deidre and JG brought together all three generations to tackle the issue! You will hear from two special guests: Stephanie Quinn (our colleague at PEAR – representing the Millennial generation) and Gary Stein (avid GutwiZdom listener) representing the Boomer generation). What ensued was a spirited discussion of the facts and fictions surrounding Millennials.
"WiZdoms for the Ages"
- A great way to attract Millennials and new talent at your organization is to offer assistance towards student loan debt.
- Create a formal mentorship program between the Boomers and the Millennials at your organization. Mentoring will allow more tenured employees to transfer their wisdom and knowledge from one generation to the next.
- Create diverse teams by putting Boomers and Millennials together. Reverse mentoring can be just as beneficial to your organization.
- Be transparent in your leadership and create psychological safety by giving Boomers the ability to mentor, and giving Millennials the ability to learn and be heard.
- Trust Millennial employees to get the job done in their own way. Don’t micromanage or enable them, let them think for themselves.
- Share your “why” or your big picture. If you can explain the why, Millennials are going to be on board. They want to be a part of something meaningful where they can make a difference.
- Millennials: ask for what you want and don’t be afraid to ask others the “why” behind the work.
How do you empower the Millennials at your organization? Let us know by leaving us a voicemail at 1-646-653-9278 or sending us a message here.
Learn how we help job seekers, employers, and employees by visiting My Success Platform and PEAR Core Solutions.
