|
Author: Rachelle Disbennett-Lee Article source: http://associatedcontent.com/. Used with author's permission.
For the first time in history, there are four generations in the work force. Although this is an exciting time, it is not without challenges. Working with the generations requires patience and understanding. Each generation brings a new perspective, but we need to learn to value the new ideas, and embrace the change that each new generation brings.
Ten years ago, when I started teaching classes at the local university, I was typically ten years younger than the majority of the students. Now, I am at least ten years older than the majority of the students - and many of my students are in their early to mid-twenties. This diversity in the generations is not without challenge. I cannot expect to teach all of the students in the same way. I have to be flexible and open to new ways of getting my message across. The same is true anywhere you have a blend of the generations. All bring a unique perspective and different ways of relating to their environment.
All of my students at the university must present a report on the challenges and benefits of working with the generations. Most of the students believe that their generation is the best. It is human nature to believe that the generation we are part of is the best. The truth is - they all add value. The trick is to be open to the new ideas and changes that each generation brings.
The four generations: The Matures - born prior to 1946; the Baby Boomers - born between 1946 through 1964; Generation X - born between 1965 through 1980, and the Millennials - born 1981 through 1994, all bring with them different perspectives on life and work. The Matures are dedicated to a job once they take it, the Boomers live to work, Generation X work to live, and the Millennials live in the moment. All have great ideas to bring to the workforce and all can benefit the organization, but we have to learn to value the differences and not get caught up in thinking our generation's way is the best way.
I believe the biggest problem with working with the generations is understanding them. It is easy to stereotype a generation if you haven't taken the time to learn about them. The more you know about a generation, the more you can appreciate them and value their contribution. Reading about the various generations is a great start. The best research of all, though, is to talk to people of various generations, ask questions, and listen. Coach Rachelle Disbennett-Lee, PhD, is a Certified Master Coach specializing in working with business owners and professionals in being more profitable and productive while staying sane and balanced. Coach Lee is the publisher of the award winning e-zine, 365 Days of Coaching. Her first book, 365 Days of Coaching - Because Life Happens Every Day (Universal Publisher, 2004) was named a finalist for Best Book 2004 by Publish.com and has a five star rating on Amazon.com. Visit Coach Lee at her websites http://www.coachlee.com and http://www.365daysofcoaching.com
True Direction, Inc. Copyright
>>>This article along with byline attached may be freely republished<<<
Stage Hypnosis Vs Hypnotherapy - Understanding The Difference
We've all seen them, right? The stage hypnotist, who makes his subjects cluck like chickens. But comparing a stage hypnotist to a hypnotherapist is like compari...
Kafka Re-Trial
Kafka lands resurrected in Crewe
deposited by a silvery alien craft,
And whilst he is wondering what to do
He is asked to show his pass
Or pay an instant one of...
My Next Year With Jesus (Joyful Reflections On My Walk With The Lord)
"Am I involved with life the way God wants me to be
involved?"
MLM Training - The Network Marketing Success POWER of Faith in YOURSELF
What is the REAL Power of a dream? Do statistics matter when you have faith in yourself? Read on!
God Loves You With the Love of God
Do you ever feel that what you read in some Christian books is not really God's truth at all, but is merely the opinion of the writer, dressed up in the clothin...
Benefits of a Personal Secured Loan
A Personal secured loan can offer many benefits, some of which are listed below:
Joint Accountability: Another Key for Your Effectiveness
In this article, Roger Schwarz shares two stories that illustrate the benefits and definition of Joint Accountability - one of the core principles of his approa...
New Years Resolutions
Ah, the start of another year! In a groggy haze on New Years Eve, I promised someone (or was it myself?) that I would be good this year. I said I would draw u...
10 Mind Blowing Ways To Increase Your Sales
1. Show your prospects how much enthusiasm you have for your product and business. If you're convincing enough, they will be enthusiastic too. 2. End your sales...
Play Poker Online To Hone Your Skills
Poker and poker tournaments can make your home entertainment sizzle...
Acne Scars – Cause, Prevention and Treatment
Acne affects as much as 80% of teenagers and others in their early twenties, while most get out with only a few minor acne scars, some even without any at all; ...
Organized Living in a Disorganized World
It wasn't long ago that "organizing" was considered trivial.
Today it is necessary. Disorganization leads to increased stress,loss of profits, low productivity,...
10 Reasons Why Time and Attendance Systems Are Not Just Substitutes for Clock Cards
Some claim that a Time and Attendance System is just a high tech clock card. Boy are they wrong!
Time Management Doesnt Exist! So What Can You Do?
An article about time management, how exciting! Finally, you can learn how to manage your busy schedule packed with errands, trips, chores, and other responsibi...
What is Link Trading and How Do You Trade?
Link trading is the task of getting links to your site on other sites by trading.. umm.. links. This is done to get more traffic to you web site. Link trading c...
Smith Could “C” the Future
Frederick W. Smith attended Yale University and wrote a paper on the concept of overnight package delivery. Smith's professor did not agree with his futuristic...
IPv6 - Next Step In IP Security
IPv6, Introduction
Challenges for Our Children
Why do so many children have "low self-esteem?" Here are some thoughts for parents to protect your children...
The NEW Roth 401k Plan
Are you ready to retire? Sure! Finances ready? Uh-oh. Think long-term.
Feeds For Small Business: Real World Examples
Any business, no matter what size, no matter what kind, can benefit from feeds, online or offline!
7 Things You Must Do If You Want To Increase Your Traffic
Gary Halbert once said that the ONLY advantage he wanted when it came to selling burgers was not a better sauce, or better grade of beef, but a STARVING CROWD. ...
Stock and Fund Dividends
Do dividends really matter? The truth about how you get a dividend and is it really a dividend?
Fall Fashion Tips
The designers have already set the trends for spring and you aren't decked out for fall yet. Here are a few tips and trends for Fall 2005.
Are Resumes Vital? Only If You Want A Job
An outstanding resume is a crucial job search tool. A mediocre one isn't worth the paper it's printed on.
|
Print this page