From 18 to 80:Thriving in the
Multi-Generational Workplace
David Remson
Triangle Consulting
daremson@msn.com
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Goals:
• Understand the historical
perspective of each generation.
• Understand the values and
workstyle preferences of each
generation.
• Identify strategies for more
effective work relationships.
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The Four Generations at Work
• WWII (Silents) 1928-1946
• Baby Boomers 1946-1964
• Generation X
1964-1982
• Millennials
1982-2000
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Millennial Communication
Strategies:
When working with
Millennials:
• Nurture them.
• Be open and friendly.
• Make it fast and fun.
• Give them
opportunities for
collaboration.
If you are a Millennial:
 Strive for independence.
 Look for a mentor.
 Listen more, talk less.
 Learn to deal with conflict.
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Gen X Communication
Strategies:
When working with
Xer’s:
• Use technology.
• Get to the point.
• Be sincere.
• Problem solving
orientation.
• Training.
If you are an Xer:
 Engage with your team.
 Ask for what you need.
 Be patient with the process.
 Lighten up!
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Boomer Communication
Strategies:
When working with
Boomers:
• Friendly and
welcoming.
• Inclusive.
• Give opportunities
for feedback.
• Provide
Acknowledgement.
If you are a Boomer:
 Walk your talk.
 Don’t take it personally.
 Be sincere.
 A little less process…
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Veteran’s Communication
Strategies:
When working with
Veterans:
• Face to Face.
• Formal/chain of
command.
• Linear/task
oriented.
• Utilize the history
they hold.
If you are a Veteran:
 Share your history.
 Be a mentor.
 Stretch your “adaptor” muscles.
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Generational Trivia Contest!
1.
Born between 1960 and 1980, this generation faced recession and employee
layoffs as they began entering the workforce.
2.
This generation remains eternally optimistic and has made turning 50 fashionable.
3.
This generation was raised to believe in sacrifice and service to the community.
4.
This generation was born with computer technology in their genes.
5.
Sally Field shouted, “you like me, you really like me” upon winning an academy
award reflecting the desire of which generation?
6.
“Just the facts, jack” reflects the preferred communication style of which
generation?
7.
“Whose in charge?” reflects the preferred work environment of which
generation?
8.
Two words, fast and fun, describes which generation?
9.
“We want you to have a life” is a message that is essential to which generation?
10.
“Tell me how you feel about this decision” is a message that works particularly
well for which generation?
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Generational Trivia Contest!
11.
Let’s review who will work on which tasks” is a message this generation can
relate to.
12..
“Please come to me whenever you need to” is a message this generation
will appreciate.
13.
They secretly hope for a Beatles reunion.
14.
They wish someone would tell the previous generation that two of the
Beatles are dead.
Identify an icon for each generation:
Veterans (WWII):
____________________________
Baby Boomers:
____________________________
Gen Xers:
____________________________
Millennials:
____________________________
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Triangle Consulting
David Remson
daremson@msn.com
303-564-6628
“It’s not about them. It’s about
you”
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