Multi Generation Workplace
With all the multi-gen hullabaloo going around, I kinda feel it has already become a overused term and subject. Gen Y do get a lot of vindication and big smiles when the subject gets taken up, and other Gens most often cross eyebrows.
What I am more interested right now is that now that we all now about the multi generational workplace, and we more or less have accepted each generations good and bad, how do we all work together, I am more concerned about how each Generation in different stages of the corporate structure should adjust and move forward, I want to to know how do we work together and move forward.
A presentation by U21 and E-Learning the other day tackled the multi gen workforce, specifically GenY. They were explaining how their business or learning module/structure/framework can benefit training requirements for this segment. What I like most is that it has a couple of points or call to action on what managers can do to manage GenY.
1.) Use 360 degree Reviews, for them and for their bosses
2.) Run interference, keep office politics out of their way
3.) Focus on relationship with direct supervisor
4.) Give them a lot of space, they are used to being on their own and provide expectations, feedback and open dialogue
5.) You need credibility, they do not respect authority
6.) embrace their input
Although it is not yet complete, I feel it generally has the right concept and context, Everybody engaged in the mudslinging and ranting should focus on how we all move forward. For as they say "There are not enough GenX to fill the retiring Boomers" the next workforce and stake-holders will be majority GenY.
I couple of point for the GenY's though, although you get vindication and satisfaction that you get understood and you get to put on the table how you work and your attitudes, you should remember that it is always a two way street, the higher ups or the other Gens are not suppose to be the only ones to adjust, the GenY must adjust, be flexible and learn to be patient, fight the battles worth fighting and learn the politics, for it is still a social world and this world is not all GenY, learn to play with the Bully and the other kids in the playground.
Most importantly, love your work and be uncompromising of who you are, be firm on your character and integrity. It is what will define you. Focus on implementation and results, as with everything, specially in the corporate world, results will speak for itself.
Have fun and treat each day in the corporate world as a challenge and a adventure ! 