For the first time in history we are seeing significant interaction of 4-generations in the workforce. We are also seeing the impact of these four generations and the dichotomy of views each holds respective of their own generational values, beliefs and points of view. These dichotomies would imply differences which often are manifested by varying attitudes, behaviors, thought processes, approaches to getting the job done, as well as what work means in the greater context of living. If we take a moment to reflect on what has transpired over that last 80 years, it is clear and reasonable that differences would and should exist between the 4 generations. Seriously take a step back in time and reflect what it might have been like to live and grow up in the 1930’s, 1950’s 1970’s 1990’s and so on versus 2009. Significant strides have been made in all aspects of life: technologically, socially, economically, relationally, and from a societal perspective to name a few. Some Veterans and Boomers often reflect on the good old days of the 1940’s and 50’s where June and Ward Cleaver represented the epitome of the American Family, while the millennials can hardly relate to world without internet, texting, micro wave popcorn and cable TV. The people, events, social norms, and our formative years’ experiences that shaped each generation’s values, beliefs, and attitudes are without a doubt distinct and unique. So where in lies the common thread to understanding these varying values, beliefs, thoughts and opinions? And how do we apply it in order to more effectively understand each other and in turn work side by side in an effort to create a collaborative work environment that values each point of view and applies the collective strengths present within each person and generation?
I believe the common thread is the human experience. Regardless of what period in time you grew up, or what events, people, or experienced shaped your world, only you know what those events meant to your existence and how they impacted the way you think, behave, and interact with the people in your life. Bottom line, we all have a desire to live a life that is rewarding and full, and which allows us to identify our unique gifts and talents and put them to work in a positive and meaningful way. Work is an expression of who you are and as you develop a career you soon start to realize I better love or at least like what I am doing and who I am doing it with, otherwise it can lead to a miserable and painful existence.
So how do we connect our human experiences so we better understand each others’ generational points of view….it’s rather simple on the surface but requires desire, tenacity, and dedication. It is:
COMMUNICATION that is Meaningful and Insightful.
Dale Carnegie in his book How to Win Friends and Influence People reveals a couple of insights which pave the way for meaningful and insightful communication. He notes the sweetest sound to any person is the sound of their NAME and the one topic they love and know most about is THEMSELVES. So with this in mind, challenge yourself, your team, and your unit to have meaningful and insightful communication in understanding each other’s generational points of view. I’m willing to bet you will find you have much more in common then you first believed and you will generate a level of understanding you never thought possible. This translates into a team working together more effectively to achieve the common goals and objectives of the organization.
Here are a few recommendations to create an environment where people can share some of their generational experiences that are important and meaningful in their life:
· Favorite Music: During company events, unit meetings, recognition events, allow people to share their favorite music growing up. It is amazing how music connects us to the events in our lives and how we each have a different memory and perspective which can serve to create common ground on various levels.
· Fun Event of Your Life: At the end of a unit meeting or staff meeting – have people share one event that was fun and/or memorable in their life. First car, first date, first pet, vacations, etc.
· Impactful events that left an impression – we each have experienced good and bad events that led to shaping our psyche and general attitudes about the world around us. Again at a unit or staff meeting take the time to share some of these profound and meaningful experiences - Think D-Day, Kennedy, Man Landing on the moon, 9-11-01, and Election of President Obama.
· Story – we all have our story and it is uniquely ours. Too often we believe it is a common story or one that would not be of interest to anyone. On the contrary our lives have so much meaning and value and can contribute positively to others. I am of the belief, I learn and grow from each person in my life and what they have taught me from their own experiences. Take the time to learn the story of someone you work.
· Childhood – Deepak Chopra once stated, “ There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in”. Do you remember when that door opened in your childhood? Our formative years did so much in determining who we are, what we believe, and how we saw our future unfold. Take the time to know a little more about each other’s childhoods and enter the world of greater understanding of each other.
The human experience is one that connects us all. When we are willing to understand each other’s generational experiences we gain insight into the individual, not just your peer, your boss or your internal or external customer, but the individual. In doing so you enrich your own experience, you gain wisdom and understanding, you eliminate erroneous thinking and stereotyping, you get to the heart of what makes an individual tick, and how you can help each other succeed. Yes the 20 something and the 70 something have something in common and when we seek those common connections, we are all the better for it, personally and professionally. Good luck!