Across the Ages

Making It Work

Here are four caveats condensed from a plethora of materials (including The Atlantic, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, CBS News, and Inbound Logistics to name a few) to help prevent misunderstandings, promote camaraderie, and create a friendly yet highly productive atmosphere in the work place:

Sense and Sensibility – It is impossible to make everyone happy all of the time, and a losing battle for any employer that tries.  Moderation is key: incentivize change while providing perks that appeal to each generation.  Change should be about prepping your firm for the future, not chasing the latest trends.

Pride and Prejudice – Every generation has quarrels with the next; acceptance may be a slow-moving train, but it will arrive at the station.  Differences can be celebrated; schedule gatherings that allow employees to get to know each other in a relaxed setting with games or team-building activities. 

Brave New World – Assumptions about Baby Boomers and Millennials abound, yet there are as many exceptions as stereotypes.  Age and experience are not mutually exclusive.  Encourage cross-generational participation in internal committees or task forces; not only will it foster open communication, but help spearhead company growth.

Ride the Whirlwind – When considering the technological breakthroughs of the last two decades, change is the only constant.  Workers of all ages should learn to leverage technology for better performance, and many Millennials are uniquely qualified to help promote the power and convenience of these tools.  Embrace the high-tech revolution or risk being left behind.